Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is the gold standard for family films that don't insult anyone's intelligence. Twenty years later, The Incredibles remains shockingly relevant—maybe more so, given how much it has to say about purpose, identity, and what happens when society tells everyone to be less than they are.

The superhero action is genuinely exciting without being gratuitous. The family dynamics feel real—Helen's exasperation, Bob's midlife floundering, Violet's insecurity, Dash's energy—without being saccharine. And Brad Bird sneaks in commentary about participation trophies, lawsuit culture, and the tension between extraordinary ability and forced mediocrity that still sparks debate in parenting circles.

Yes, it has some intense moments. The plane attack scene is scary. Syndrome's fate is dark. But it treats kids like they can handle stakes and consequences, which is increasingly rare. It's also hilarious (Edna! Jack-Jack! The dinner table argument!), gorgeous to look at, and somehow gets better with every rewatch.

If your kid can handle Marvel-level action and you want something with actual substance underneath the superpowers, this is it. Just maybe wait until they're 7+, and sit with them for that plane scene.

Age Fit

Best for ages 7-14. The action intensity and mature themes (marriage strain, identity crisis, workplace dissatisfaction) make it too much for most kids under 7, but the superhero adventure and family dynamics keep tweens engaged. Teenagers might think they're too cool for it, but secretly they're not.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

82

Strong family-centered narrative with positive messages about working together, valuing each member's unique gifts, and honest marital communication. Bob's midlife crisis and deception create some tension, but the resolution models accountability and reconnection. The Parr family dynamics feel real—sibling rivalry, parental stress, teenagers being teenagers—without being mean-spirited. Pacing is excellent; never chaotic despite action sequences. Minor deduction for some marital strain that younger kids might find uncomfortable.

Imaginative

88

Pixar at peak creativity: retrofuturistic 1960s aesthetic, inventive superpowers that feel fresh (Violet's force fields, Dash's speed used cleverly), Edna Mode as an instant icon, and world-building that asks 'what if superheroes had to go into witness protection?' The film invites kids to imagine their own powers and secret identities. Brad Bird's direction brings genuine visual invention to every frame. This isn't just superhero paint-by-numbers; it's a fully realized alternate reality.

Safe

72

PG-rated superhero action with some genuinely intense sequences: the plane attack with kids aboard is scary, Syndrome's death by cape-in-turbine is dark (though off-screen), multiple characters are shown in peril, and there's implied violence (henchmen deaths, though bloodless). The opening includes superhero lawsuits and Bob's boss being genuinely cruel. No gore, sex, or nudity, but this isn't background-safe for sensitive younger viewers. For a superhero film, it's appropriately intense—parents should know it has real stakes and some frightening moments, but nothing gratuitous.

Enriching

85

Tackles surprisingly mature themes: midlife purpose, marriage under strain, the ethics of 'everyone's special' participation culture (Dash's 'which is another way of saying no one is' line), and how families navigate different abilities/needs. Bob learns humility, Helen learns to trust her kids' capabilities, Violet gains confidence, and Dash learns discipline. The villain's motivation—rejected fanboy turned resentful—offers discussion fodder about entitlement and hero worship. Entertaining throughout while delivering real emotional and ethical depth.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

One of the rare kids' movies that gets better as you age—the adult themes about purpose and identity land differently when you're the parent
Genuinely clever superhero storytelling that doesn't talk down to kids or bore adults; Brad Bird understood the assignment
Strong family dynamics that model working through conflict, valuing different strengths, and parents learning to trust their kids' capabilities
Edna Mode is an all-timer character who teaches kids about confidence, boundaries, and why capes are a design flaw
Still looks gorgeous 20 years later—the retro-futuristic aesthetic aged like fine wine

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What to Watch For

Plane attack scene is legitimately scary—kids in danger, missiles, Helen's panic—not for sensitive viewers under 7
Syndrome's death (sucked into jet turbine) happens off-screen but is clearly fatal; some henchmen deaths throughout
Bob's deception and midlife crisis subplot might raise questions about lying to your spouse (but resolution models accountability)
The 'everyone's special means no one is' philosophy will either resonate or spark debate depending on your parenting values

Conversation Starters

"Bob felt like he wasn't important anymore at his job. Have you ever felt like people weren't seeing what you're good at?"
"Why do you think Violet was so shy at the beginning? What helped her feel more confident?"
"Syndrome thought being a superhero was just about having powers. What else do you think makes someone a hero?"
"The family had to work together and each person did something different. When has our family had to work as a team like that?"
"What would your superpower be, and how would you use it to help people?"

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