The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is a heartwarming holiday movie based on the classic book of the same name by Barbara Robinson.
Directed by Dallas Jenkins, the film follows a group of unruly children who unexpectedly become part of a Christmas pageant, teaching valuable lessons about love, acceptance, and the holiday spirit.
This guide provides an overview of the movie’s age suitability and key content for parents.
Why is The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Rated PG?
The Motion Picture Association (MPA) has rated The Best Christmas Pageant Ever PG for thematic material and brief underage smoking.
The film includes mild language, scenes of mischievous behavior, and moments of emotional depth. Below is a detailed breakdown to help parents decide if it’s suitable for their children.
Sex and Nudity: 1/5
- A husband and wife share a brief, non-sexual kiss.
- No other sexual content or suggestive themes are present.
Violence and Gore: 3/5
- Physical altercations: Children engage in a snowball fight, causing minor injuries like red faces. There’s also brief scuffling, book-throwing, and threats involving gestures.
- Destructive behavior: A group of children sets a shed on fire, though the scene is not graphic. Other incidents include a girl threatening to harm another with a plant and children stealing items from a store.
- Accidents: A woman falls and breaks her legs, shown being wheeled out of her house on a stretcher.
- Verbal threats: Kids joke about harm, including statements about murder related to the Christmas story, but these are framed within the context of learning.
Language: 2/5
- Mild profanities like “jerk” and “shut up” appear.
- Religious exclamations like “Oh my God” and “Lord have mercy” are used, reflecting the setting and tone.
- Name-calling includes terms such as “idiot,” “dummy,” and “stupid.”
Substance Use: 3/5
- A brief scene shows children sharing a cigar.
- A child is shown with stained lips, suggesting she drank sacramental wine, though the moment is subtle.
Positive Themes and Messages
- Empathy and Acceptance: The story emphasizes not judging others based on appearances or past behavior.
- Community and Kindness: The pageant brings the town together, showing how compassion can lead to understanding and growth.
- Family Values: Strong family relationships and the importance of supporting one another are central to the plot.
Content Overview
The film uses humor and heart to explore complex themes. The misbehavior of the Herdman children, such as stealing and smoking, is exaggerated for comedic effect and ultimately serves to highlight their growth.
Parents may find this an opportunity to discuss judgment, forgiveness, and the meaning of Christmas with their children.
Is The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Suitable for Kids?
- Best for ages 8+: The film is ideal for older elementary school children and above. Younger kids might struggle with some nuanced themes but can enjoy the humor and Christmas spirit.
- Parents’ Note: Families not celebrating Christmas may still appreciate the universal messages of love, kindness, and community.
Official Trailer
FAQ
Q: Is there inappropriate language in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever movie?
A: The language is mild, with words like “jerk” and “shut up.” Religious exclamations are used frequently but are not offensive within the film’s context.
Q: Is The Best Christmas Pageant Ever violent?
A: The violence is mild and mostly comical, such as snowball fights and exaggerated threats. A shed fire and minor physical altercations are depicted, but nothing graphic.
Q: Does the The Best Christmas Pageant Ever movie align with the book?
A: Yes, the movie stays true to the humor and heart of Barbara Robinson’s beloved book, with a few added scenes for cinematic effect.
Q: Can younger kids watch The Best Christmas Pageant Ever?
A: While younger kids may enjoy the funny antics, the story’s themes and dialogue are better suited for children ages 8 and older.