We're Back! A Dinosaur's Story

Parents need to know that We're Back! A Dinosaur's Story is a '90s animated movie that is best for kids who clearly understand the difference between real and pretend violence. Released in theaters by Steven Spielberg's company in 1993 just after he created Jurassic Park, this movie was meant to bring the dinosaur phenomenon to kids. It's a sweet story with clever characters and laughs, but it has a lot of cartoon (mostly exaggerated) violence. The dinosaurs are shown in two ways: as gentle, helpful creatures and as powerful, destructive beasts. Characters encounter a scary villain whose main objective is to capitalize upon the fears of children; he operates a radio station called "Fright Radio." There are spooky, dark images; a cackling bad guy; and characters in danger (falls, dinos captured and caged, bats, dragon fire). Of special note is the array of fun, quirky voice actors who populate the film, including Walter Cronkite (in a substantial featured role), Julia Child, Martin Short, and Jay Leno, among others.