The Pout-Pout Fish is a 2026 animated musical comedy from the United States and Australia, aimed at young children and families.
The film is directed by Ricard Cussó and Rio Harrington, with a screenplay by Elise Allen, Elie Choufany, and Dominic Morris.
The voice cast includes Nick Offerman, Nina Oyama, Amy Sedaris, Jordin Sparks, Miranda Otto, Remy Hii, and Nazeem Hussain.
The story follows Mr. Fish, a gloomy and introverted sea creature whose quiet life is disrupted by an overly cheerful sea dragon named Pip.
Based on the bestselling children’s book by Deborah Diesen, the film expands the short rhyming tale into a full ocean adventure.
The Pout-Pout Fish opens in U.S. theaters on March 20, 2026, distributed by Viva Pictures, with an earlier Australian release via Maslow Entertainment.
The Pout-Pout Fish Age Rating
The Pout-Pout Fish is rated PG for mild action and rude humor. This rating reflects gentle peril during the adventure, light comic insults, and energetic musical sequences. The content is designed for young viewers but may require light parental context for preschool-aged children.
Violence & Peril
The film includes mild, non-threatening action such as ocean chases, slippery escapes, and brief moments where characters feel scared. There is no realistic violence, no weapons, and no injury. The tone remains playful and reassuring throughout.
Language
Language is very mild. Some rude humor appears, mainly involving teasing words like “gloomy,” “pouty,” or exaggerated insults played for laughs. There is no profanity or hateful language.
Mature Themes
Themes focus on emotions, particularly sadness, loneliness, and learning how feelings can change. Characters discuss being unhappy or withdrawn, but the message is consistently positive. There is no substance use, sexual content, or nudity.
Is The Pout-Pout Fish Suitable for Kids?
Ages 3–5: With guidance. Younger children may feel brief tension during adventure scenes but will enjoy the songs and colorful animation.
Ages 6–8: Yes. This age group is the ideal audience and will easily understand the emotional lessons.
Ages 9–12: Yes. Older kids may find the story simple but still enjoy the humor and music.
Overall recommendation: Suitable for most children ages 5 and up.
What Parents Can Do
- Talk about emotions by discussing how Mr. Fish feels and why his mood changes.
- Reassure younger kids during mild peril scenes by explaining that everyone is safe.
- Encourage empathy by asking children how they help friends who feel sad.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for The Pout-Pout Fish?
A: The film is rated PG for mild action and rude humor.
Q: Is The Pout-Pout Fish appropriate for preschoolers?
A: Yes, with guidance. Some scenes may be slightly intense for very young children.
Q: Does the movie have scary scenes?
A: There are mild adventure moments, but nothing frightening or realistic.
Q: Is there any bad language in the film?
A: No profanity. Only very mild teasing and silly insults.
Q: Does The Pout-Pout Fish include mature or adult themes?
A: No. The themes focus on friendship, emotions, and positivity.
Q: Where can we watch The Pout-Pout Fish?
A: The film will be released theatrically on March 20, 2026.