Madeline – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Madeline

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

movie1998

58%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A 1998 adaptation of the beloved kids' book that's sweet and safe—but also slow, dated, and honestly kind of a snooze-fest for modern kids.

67%

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Madeline

movie

PG, 1998

58%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A 1998 adaptation of the beloved kids' book that's sweet and safe—but also slow, dated, and honestly kind of a snooze-fest for modern kids.

67%

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Screenwise Verdict

Here's the truth: Madeline (1998) is perfectly wholesome and safe, but it's also a relic of late-90s children's cinema that hasn't aged well. The 67% critic score reflects adults appreciating its gentle charm, while the 43% audience score reveals what actually happens when you put this on—kids get bored.

The film is slow, predictable, and lacks the visual pizzazz or narrative momentum that modern kids expect. If your child is already obsessed with the Madeline books and specifically asks to watch this, sure, go for it. But if you're browsing for a quality family movie night pick in 2025, there are dozens of better options that deliver the same wholesome values with actual entertainment value.

It's not bad, it's just... skippable. The books remain superior.

Age Fit

Common Sense Media says 6+, which tracks for content, but realistically this plays best for 5-7 year olds who are already fans of the books. Older kids will likely find it painfully slow and dated.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Based on the beloved children's book series, this film centers on friendship, courage, and problem-solving. Madeline's determination to save her school models perseverance and community care. The tone is gentle and age-appropriate, though some viewers may find the pacing slow by modern standards.

Imaginative

The Parisian boarding school setting offers visual charm and a distinct aesthetic, but the 1998 adaptation is fairly straightforward and literal. It doesn't push creative boundaries or invite much interactive imagination—it's a pleasant but conventional telling of the classic story.

Safe

Common Sense Media rates this for age 6+, and content appears to be very mild with no violence, scary content, or inappropriate material. The conflict revolves around saving a school, which is inherently low-stakes and child-friendly. No significant safety concerns for the target demographic.

Enriching

The film offers modest lessons about bravery, friendship, and standing up for what matters. However, it's more of a pleasant diversion than a deeply enriching experience. The story is simple and predictable, with limited emotional depth or complex themes to discuss afterward.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Introduces the classic Madeline character and Parisian setting to kids who love the books
Models positive values like courage, friendship, and standing up for your community
Completely safe content with zero concerning elements—perfect for very young or sensitive viewers
Short runtime means it won't overstay its welcome if your kid does engage

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What to Watch For

The 43% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes tells the real story—kids find this boring
Very dated production quality and pacing that feels glacial compared to modern children's films
Your kid might tap out after 15 minutes unless they're already obsessed with the Madeline books

Conversation Starters

"What would you do if your school was going to close? How would you try to save it?"
"Madeline made a new friend who was very different from her. Have you ever become friends with someone unexpected?"
"Do you think it's important to stand up for things you care about, even when it's hard?"

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