Big Trouble in Little China

Big Trouble in Little China

Movie • 1986

Jack Burton's in for some serious trouble and you're in for some serious fun.

Truck driver Jack Burton gets embroiled in a supernatural battle when his best friend Wang Chi's green-eyed fiancée is kidnapped by henchmen of the sorcerer Lo Pan, who must marry a girl with green eyes in order to return to the human realm.

Action
Comedy
Fantasy
Adventure
100 minutes
Released
13+

Suggested Age

Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.

The film features stylized martial arts violence with fantastical elements and intense supernatural themes. It also contains moderate language and some suggestive humor, making it more appropriate for teens who can process complex narratives and thematic elements.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

1/5

There are some mildly suggestive outfits and a brief scene with implied sensuality, but no explicit content.

Violence & Gore

3/5

The film features a lot of stylized martial arts combat and action sequences with some cartoonish violence, occasional blood, and depictions of injuries, but it is not overly graphic.

Profanity

3/5

Mild to moderate profanity is used throughout the film, including instances of 'sh*t' (3 times, used in frustration) and 'd*mn' (2 times, used in exasperation).

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

2/5

Social drinking is shown, and characters are seen smoking cigarettes occasionally, fitting the context of the era and setting.

Frightening Scenes

3/5

There are moments of suspense, some unsettling supernatural imagery, and intense fight scenes that could be frightening for younger viewers.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This is a wild adventure movie about a truck driver who gets mixed up in a magical fight with sorcerers and monsters to save his friend's kidnapped girlfriend. It's full of kung fu, mystical powers, and lots of unexpected twists!

Content Warnings

Supernatural violence
Kidnapping
Mild language

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The film contains stylized, supernatural combat with creatures and magical attacks, but no graphic gore. Moderate language is present, along with some suggestive humor and implied danger for the kidnapped character.

What Kids Can Learn

Older children can appreciate the film's blend of action and fantasy, which encourages an appreciation for storytelling and cultural mythology. It highlights the importance of helping friends, even when faced with overwhelming odds.

Key Topics Discussed

Martial arts
Mythology
Adventure

Why Parents Might Like It

This cult classic offers a unique blend of action, comedy, and fantasy with memorable characters and a distinctive visual style, appealing to adult sensibilities through its humor and imaginative world-building.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

3/5

Friendship and loyalty are central, as Jack Burton goes to great lengths to help his friend Wang. The film also touches on the idea of unexpected heroes emerging from unlikely circumstances.

Positive Role Models

2/5

While Jack Burton is a charismatic protagonist, his primary traits are bravado and a tendency to be outmatched, offering a less traditional model of heroism. Wang Chi demonstrates loyalty and determination in his quest.

Diverse Representations

3/5

The narrative centers on Chinese mythology and features a predominantly Asian cast in key roles, offering cultural exploration within a fantastical framework. However, the representation of women is primarily tied to their role as damsels in distress or mystical figures.

Educational Value

2/5

Introduces elements of Chinese mythology and folklore in an entertaining context, sparking curiosity about different cultural stories. It also implicitly explores themes of courage and problem-solving.

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