Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Sweet animated adaptation about losing a grandparent.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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A Greyhound of a Girl
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
A GREYHOUND OF A GIRL is the story of Mary (voiced by Mia O'Connor), who is struggling to come to terms with the fact that her Granny (Rosaleen Linehan) is dying. Alongside her mother (Sharon Horgan) and father (Brendan Gleeson), it's a family coming to terms with the loss of an important presence in the world—and it's a matter made all the more confusing when a stranger called Tansey (Charlene McKenna) turns up with a job to do.
Is It Any Good?
This heartwarming animation has cross-generation appeal and will touch families of all ages. There's a lot to unpack with A Greyhound of a Girl, as it's a film that works on many levels. Older viewers who can recount their own first experiences of grief will appreciate the different layers to this narrative and how it blends in the spirituality with the more stark and realistic aspects. But for those too young to quite understand, the movie also just plays well as an entertaining animation. It's funny at times, with a sharp screenplay, and has a relatable and likable lead in the young Mary. It's a profound, uplifting story that helps its young viewers attempt to make sense of something senseless: the death of a loved one. But take note, parents: There could be some sage advice in there for you, too.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how grief was portrayed in A Greyhound of a Girl. Have you ever lost someone important to you? How did it make you feel? Did the film capture these emotions in a way you related to?
Talk about the strong bond between Mary and her Granny. Do you have someone in your family you're close to? How did this relationship compare?
What character strengths did Mary display? Why are these important? Can you think of a time in your own life when you've demonstrated these life skills?
Movie Details
- In theaters: July 27, 2024
- On DVD or streaming: November 1, 2024
- Cast: Mia O'Connor , Sharon Horgan , Brendan Gleeson
- Director: Enzo D'Alo
- Inclusion Information: Female actors
- Studio: GFM Animation
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Cooking and Baking , Magic and Fantasy , Great Girl Role Models
- Character Strengths: Communication , Courage , Curiosity
- Run time: 85 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: November 3, 2024
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