Family movie night? There's an app for that
Download our new mobile app on iOS and Android.
The Canterville Ghost
By Tom Cassidy,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Spooky animated Oscar Wilde story has death-related themes.
A Lot or a Little?
What you will—and won't—find in this movie.
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Canterville Ghost
Community Reviews
There aren't any parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
In THE CANTERVILLE GHOST, grumpy ghost Sir Simon de Canterville (voiced by Stephen Fry) has scared away everyone from his house for the past 300 years. But he meets his match when the Otis family move in and refuse to be afraid.
Is It Any Good?
This functional retelling of the Oscar Wilde ghost story provides enough entertainment for younger viewers venturing into the world of spooky movies. The Canterville Ghost is lighthearted but suitably gothic, and comic relief is provided by a cocky pair of prankster brothers. Fry gives a spirited performance as the grumpy ghost, Sir Simon De Canterville, and is reunited with his former comedy partner Hugh Laurie, although his role as the Grim Reaper is fleeting. Indeed the concept of death haunts the movie, which may be troubling for the youngest of viewers, although it strongly presents the idea of an afterlife. Elsewhere Miranda Hart's wacky ghosthunter, The Ghost Catcher, grates. But with strong messages of friendship, teamwork and courage, The Canterville Ghost is a solid adaptation that covers some tough subjects.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the scary moments in The Canterville Ghost. Which scenes did you find most frightening? Did you feel scared after the movie had finished? How much scary stuff can kids handle?
What examples of curiosity, teamwork, and courage can you give from the film? Why are these such important character strengths to have? Can you think of any examples when you've shown these traits?
What were some of the differences between Sir Simon de Canterville and the Otis family?
What do you think the movie was trying to say about loss and grief? Have you ever lost someone close to you? How did you feel?
Movie Details
- In theaters: October 20, 2023
- On DVD or streaming: December 5, 2023
- Cast: Stephen Fry , Emily Carey , Hugh Laurie
- Directors: Kim Burdon , Robert Chandler
- Inclusion Information: Female actors
- Studio: Blue Fox Entertainment
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Book Characters , Monsters, Ghosts, and Vampires
- Character Strengths: Courage , Curiosity , Teamwork
- Run time: 89 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: December 4, 2023
Inclusion information powered by
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
Where to Watch
Our Editors Recommend
Scary Movies for Kids
Scary (But Not TOO Scary!) Halloween Movies
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate