Johnny English Reborn

Johnny English Reborn

movie

PG, 2011

WISE
48%

WISE Score

40

Avg. Tomatometer

Rowan Atkinson's bumbling spy returns for a forgettable sequel that's safe but about as thrilling as watching paint dry in slow motion.

IMDb6.3
RT Critics40%
MC46
Common Sense Media
Where to Watch
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Screenwise Verdict

Look, this is technically safe and technically fine for family movie night, but let's be real: it's 2025 and this 2011 sequel was barely good when it came out.

The critics gave it 40%, audiences gave it 45%, and those numbers feel generous. It's the kind of movie that exists purely to capitalize on the first film's modest success, and it shows. Rowan Atkinson does his physical comedy thing, there are some spy gadgets, some martial arts, and a paint-by-numbers plot about saving world leaders.

For an 8-10 year old who genuinely loves silly spy movies and hasn't discovered better options yet, sure, it'll pass 101 minutes. But there's nothing here that makes it worth seeking out over literally dozens of better family comedies. It's not offensive, it's not scary, it's just... there. Aggressively mediocre.

If your kid specifically requests it or you find it free on a streaming service and need something totally safe and brain-off, fine. But don't go out of your way.

Age Fit

Best for ages 8-12 who enjoy silly spy comedies and Rowan Atkinson's physical humor. Adults and teens will likely find it painfully dated and dull. Even within the target age range, there are far better family comedies available.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
68

Spy comedy with slapstick humor and bumbling protagonist models perseverance and redemption. Tone is light and family-friendly with minimal meanness. However, some physical comedy violence and spy-action sequences keep it from being fully wholesome. Pacing is reasonable for the genre.

Imaginative
52

Spy gadgetry and international intrigue offer some creative elements, but this is a formulaic parody sequel that doesn't break new ground. The bumbling spy trope is well-worn, and the plot follows predictable spy-comedy beats. Doesn't invite creative expression or exploration beyond passive viewing.

Safe
72

Common Sense Media rates it for age 8+. Action violence is cartoonish and played for laughs rather than intensity. No gore, sexual content, or truly frightening moments. Spy action includes martial arts fights, gunplay, and chase sequences, but all within expected PG-style boundaries. No surprise traumatic content.

Enriching
45

Limited educational or growth value beyond basic themes of redemption and persistence. Rowan Atkinson's physical comedy offers some entertainment, but the humor is shallow slapstick. No meaningful skill-building, ethical complexity, or lasting takeaways. Pure escapist entertainment without depth.

Parent Info

Why It Might Be Great

  • Physical comedy from Rowan Atkinson offers some laughs for younger kids who enjoy slapstick
  • Action sequences are cartoonish enough to be non-threatening for sensitive viewers
  • Themes of redemption and perseverance as English tries to restore his reputation
  • Safe family viewing without scary content or inappropriate material

What to Watch For

  • Spy action includes martial arts fights, gunplay, and chase sequences (all played for comedy)
  • Some pratfalls and physical comedy violence that might be imitable
  • Honestly, the bigger concern is whether your kid will stay awake through this one
  • Critics and audiences were pretty lukewarm on this sequel for good reason

Conversation Starters

  • "What was the funniest part of Johnny's spy gadgets going wrong?"
  • "How do you think Johnny felt when everyone thought he wasn't good at his job?"
  • "If you were a spy, what kind of gadget would you want to have?"
  • "Why do you think Johnny kept trying even when things went badly?"
Stills
Johnny English Reborn — still 1
Johnny English Reborn — still 2
Johnny English Reborn — still 3
Johnny English Reborn — still 4
Johnny English Reborn — still 5
Johnny English Reborn — still 6
Johnny English Reborn — still 7
Johnny English Reborn — still 8

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