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Sweet Dahl book adaptation has big heart, big scares.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Like the book, the movie teaches kids about not ju

Strong themes of courage, perseverance, and empath

The BFG and Sophie are wonderful friends to each o

The movie's tone is dark, and there's plen

Insults like "you're a disgrace to giants

Nothing in the movie, but there's tie-in merch

Men who appear drunk walk around the streets below

Parents need to know that The BFG -- which was directed by Steven Spielberg and based on Roald Dahl's beloved fantasy book -- is about a Big Friendly Giant (BFG) and Sophie, the young orphan he first snatches and later befriends. The movie has a dark tone, and tense moments of peril and danger punctuate…

Educational Value

Like the book, the movie teaches kids about not judging others by their appearances, about the importance of friendship (no matter how unlikely it is), and the power of speaking up and asking for help. They may also learn about Nicholas Nickleby , the Charles Dickens book that Sophie is reading when she's taken by the BFG.

Positive Messages

Strong themes of courage, perseverance, and empathy. Shares the book's themes about friends coming in all shapes and sizes, how even one or two individuals can make a difference, and how everyone needs someone to believe in them. Sophie and the BFG's friendship also explores how friends should stand up for each other, and their interaction with the queen reveals how you shouldn't be afraid to ask for help, even if it seems daunting.

Positive Role Models

The BFG and Sophie are wonderful friends to each other. They protect, listen to, and help each other overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The queen believes Sophie and the BFG and agrees to help them. Sophie is courageous and determined.

Violence & Scariness

The movie's tone is dark, and there's plenty of peril/danger. Sophie -- who's an orphan (she says bluntly that her parents are dead) -- is snatched away by the BFG and immediately taken to Giant Country (she screams the whole time). After she's kidnapped, Sophie believes she's going to be eaten as the Giant sautees dinner (and she lands in the skillet). She later realizes she's safe with him -- but the other nine giants are indeed human-eaters. These giants hunt for Sophie and destroy the BFG's home. They also hurt him in several tense scenes that put Sophie (and the BFG) in precarious positions as she attempts to hide from them. The BFG plants a nightmare in Sophie's mind when she sleeps just so she'll believe him about how truly bad the other giants really are. In one scene, a truck hits a giant's private parts. At one point, a giant nearly does eat Sophie, but she's saved at the last minute. The British Army invades Giant Country and subdues each of the "bad" giants. Several references to the last child who stayed with the BFG, whom the other Giants found and ate.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Insults like "you're a disgrace to giants," and some silly potty humor as a special fizzy drink causes everyone (even the queen) to "whizzpop" (fart).

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Products & Purchases

Nothing in the movie, but there's tie-in merchandise for all Disney movies, so expect apparel, games, toys, and more.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Men who appear drunk walk around the streets below the orphanage, and Sophie yells at them. The giants drink a green fizzy drink called frobscottle , in which the bubbles go down instead of up. Although it's supposedly made from fermented snozzcumber , t's not alcoholic, seeing as Sophie is allowed to drink it (and so does the queen of England).

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that The BFG -- which was directed by Steven Spielberg and based on Roald Dahl's beloved fantasy book -- is about a Big Friendly Giant (BFG) and Sophie, the young orphan he first snatches and later befriends. The movie has a dark tone, and tense moments of peril and danger punctuate the story from the beginning. After Sophie (Ruby Barnhill) is kidnapped, she expects the BFG ( Mark Rylance ) to cook her for dinner, and later she's hunted by the other giants, who love to eat children; these giants are destructive, loud, and scary when they're on screen. In one scene, the BFG plants a nightmare in Sophie's mind when she sleeps just so she'll believe him about how truly bad the other giants really are. Death is also referenced in not-so-subtle ways: Sophie bluntly states that her parents are dead, and the BFG alludes to another human child he used to be friends with who was clearly eaten by the other giants. While the scares are enough to keep the littlest audience members away (or at least with their eyes firmly covered), this tale about discovering friendship and family in the unlikeliest places also offers sweetness, humor, and heart -- as well as themes of courage, empathy, and perseverance. (Oh, and some fart jokes.) To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

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Community Reviews

• Parents say (29)
• Kids say (44)

Based on 29 parent reviews

Sweet film, a bit too scary for younger ones

Good, but can be scary, what's the story.

In THE BFG, Sophie (Ruby Barnhill), a young orphan with insomnia, spends her evenings either walking the halls of the orphanage or reading books well into the wee hours of the night. On one of these restless nights, she finds herself face-to-face with "the boogie monster." He kidnaps her and takes her to live on Giant Island; as a result, Sophie spends the beginning of the movie terrified and angry -- she's scared of being eaten and then angry when she learns she's expected to live on Giant Island for the rest of her life. But gradually Sophie and the "monster" get to know each other, and Sophie learns that he's actually a Big Friendly Giant ( Mark Rylance ), who walks the streets at night placing good dreams into children's rooms. As their friendship unfolds, the BFG shows caring and kindness toward Sophie -- and they work together to try to rid Giant Island of the rest of its scary, bullying residents, all of whom are eager to eat the "bean" (aka "child") that the BFG brought home with him. Sophie and the BFG power through dangerous encounters, terrifying close calls, and sheer hilarity as they discover a deep and truly unique friendship.

Is It Any Good?

The magic, fantasy, and eventual pure sweetness between the two central characters is nothing short of heartwarming. The BFG has many opportunities to highlight what being a good friend is all about -- and what it means to have strong values. Sophie, a wise-beyond-her-years orphan, is played incredibly well by Barnhill. She's fully developed as a character, but her maturity is lovingly balanced with her regular, child-like ways. This is a welcome change, since "mature kids" in movies and TV shows can often seem sassy and unrelatable.

The visuals live up to director Steven Spielberg 's reputation; as always, he has a knack for bringing fantastical elements and creatures into everyday life. As for the BFG himself, Rylance will win audiences over from his first (of many) teary-eyed smile. His giant warmth and compassion, his bumbling language and missteps, and his grit and determination will leave every kid -- and parent -- wanting a BFG of their own.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about what makes Sophie such a strong character in The BFG . Do you think she's a good role model ? Why? Can you think of other movies featuring strong female characters?

What was the scariest part of the movie? Did the scary parts make the movie sadder or more fun? Why? How much scary stuff can young kids handle?

What did this movie teach you about friendship? What specific things happened that were examples of empathy , courage , and perseverance ? Why are those important character strengths ?

Why do you think the BFG didn't eat "beans" like the other giants? In what other ways is he different from the other giants?

Kids: If you read the book, how do you think the movie compares? Were there scenes in the movie that looked different in your mind? Do you like reading a book before it gets made into a movie?

Movie Details

• In theaters : July 1, 2016
• On DVD or streaming : November 29, 2016
• Cast : Rebecca Hall , Mark Rylance , Jemaine Clement , Ruby Barnhill
• Director : Steven Spielberg
• Inclusion Information : Female actors, Indigenous actors, Polynesian/Pacific Islander actors
• Studio : Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
• Genre : Family and Kids
• Topics : Magic and Fantasy , Book Characters , Friendship , Great Girl Role Models
• Character Strengths : Courage , Empathy , Perseverance
• Run time : 115 minutes
• MPAA rating : PG
• MPAA explanation : action/peril, some scary moments and brief rude humor
• Award : Common Sense Selection
• Last updated : February 18, 2023

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Our editors recommend.

The BFG (1989)

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‘The BFG’ Review: Big, Friendly, and Giant

Steven Spielberg’s whimsical tale is a delightful fantasy.

It’s almost odd that it should have taken this long to blend the sensibilities of Steven Spielberg and Roald Dahl , two storytellers who speak to children in a poignant and honest way, but better late than never. We finally have this mash-up with the director’s adaptation of Dahl’s The BFG , and it’s a charming, delightful picture that carries echoes of Disney’s Fantasia as it swirls around a dreamscape set to John Williams ’ enchanting score. While it does run a bit long and may not captivate younger viewers with shorter attention spans, it still manages to be a treat for the senses and a joy to behold.

Sophie ( Ruby Barnhill ) is an orphan living in London, and one night during the Witching Hour (3am), she spots a giant ( Mark Rylance ) outside her window. The giant spots her back and realizing that she might tell everyone what she saw, he kidnaps Sophie and takes her back to Giant Country. While at first she tries to escape, she soon strikes up a friendship with the giant, whom she calls “BFG” for “Big Friendly Giant”. But it turns out he’s the runt of the litter and is tormented by the other, bigger giants, who are cannibalistic. Together, Sophie and BFG concoct a plan to stop the mean giants and bring peace to his life.

While the film eventually deals with the mean giants (who have great names likes “Fleshlumpeater” and “Bloodbottler”), a large portion of the film is taken up with the BFG’s profession, which is capturing and delivering dreams. This is where the film feels most like Fantasia as the BFG and Sophie chase down flickering, colored lights while Williams’ playful score carries along in the background. It’s dreamy and it’s bold. Rather than push us through a propulsive plot, these scenes are almost experimental in how they languidly carry us through a dream space. And yet I would argue that while the rest of the film is charming in its own way, the dream capturing sequence is the highlight of the picture.

Not that The BFG forgets its more childish impulses. There’s a drink that causes the BFG to fart and later plays a part in an elaborate, borderline symphonic fart joke, but if you’re going to have a fart joke, I say don’t make any half-measures, and Spielberg carries it all the way. While it is a bit jarring in the third act as the plot brings in more characters to help carry through Sophie and the Giant’s plan, it’s still incredibly charming throughout. This is just a movie that plants a giant smile on your face and doesn’t relent for the entirety of its runtime.

A large part of that is due to the chemistry between Rylance and Barnhill. Rylance is absolutely lovable as The BFG and Barnhill adds herself to the ranks of the great child performances that have appeared in Spielberg’s films. The two are just so endearing, and you find yourself cheering for their friendship. They’re both outsiders who need each other and yet we know that they ultimately can’t be together because they’re from two different worlds. It’s a melancholy note that the movie never shies away from, but it doesn’t overplay it either.

While the movie could stand to be a bit shorter (the third act does run on a little long), The BFG is a total charmer, and one of the best friendship tales in recent memory. It’s also nice to see Spielberg indulge his more experimental side, and when he does, The BFG is the stuff dreams are made of.

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Review: In ‘The BFG,’ Walking Gently and Wearing Huge Shoes

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By A.O. Scott

• June 30, 2016

“The BFG” — it stands for “big friendly giant” — is a small, friendly movie, an attempt to reconcile the scale and dazzle of modern filmmaking with the quiet, mischievous charm of Roald Dahl’s book . Directed by Steven Spielberg and written by his frequent collaborator Melissa Mathison (who died in November), it chronicles the relationship between the title character (Mark Rylance) and a young orphan named Sophie (Ruby Barnhill).

The Giant, at first an embodiment of childhood terrors, turns out to be a gentle soul with expressive ears, a melancholy countenance and an inventive, semi-nonsensical way of talking. Sophie is first his captive — he plucks her from the orphanage after she spies him sneaking through the nighttime London streets — and then his ward and pal. He lives in a faraway valley with nine other giants who call him Runt (everything is relative) and mock his vegetarianism. They regard humans (“beans” in their lingo) as food, so he has to protect Sophie from them. Eventually, she and the BFG visit the queen (Penelope Wilton) and have a big breakfast with her and her assistants (Rafe Spall and Rebecca Hall).

Dahl’s book is a touching, episodic chronicle, illustrated with whimsical line drawings by Quentin Blake. Not as dark and nasty as some of Dahl’s other work for children — it doesn’t have the sinister undertones of “James and the Giant Peach” or the rebellious anarchy of “Matilda” — it is touched with sadness as well as with wonder. Mr. Spielberg tries to replicate this delicate mood, and compared with other recent entertainment of its kind, including some of his own films, “The BFG” is notably restrained.

The friendly giant is well acquainted with loneliness and grief, conditions whose sources are hinted at in ways that may mercifully elude the understanding of the very youngest viewers. And while his carnivorous brethren (led by a lummox named Fleshlumpeater, played by Jemaine Clement) are full of slobbery bluster, they project all the menace of untrained sheepdogs.

Movie Review: ‘The BFG’

The times critic a. o. scott reviews “the bfg.”.

The digital effects that render both the Giant’s person and his surroundings are exquisite. Instead of flash and noise, Mr. Spielberg and his visual team (led by his standby cinematographer, Janusz Kaminski) go for shimmer and glow, with the exception of a few bouts of loud, fluorescent flatulence called forth by the bubbly home brew that is the BFG’s tipple of choice.

His vocation is collecting dreams, flickering webs of light that he catches with a net and stores in carefully labeled jars. We don’t see the content of the dreams, only their color and shape, and they serve both as receptacles for the film’s gauzy sense of wide-eyed awe and metaphors for its aspirations. Instead of racing through a hectic narrative, “The BFG” lingers to inhale its own perfume, to revel in the inexhaustibly magical potential of cinema.

Mr. Spielberg can only be commended for believing, after more than four decades in the business, in the gossamer glamour of the moving image. But there is something overly strenuous about this particular testament of faith. Like Martin Scorsese’s “Hugo,” another children’s-book adaptation from a high priest of baby-boomer movie worship, “The BFG” is so committed to inducing a state of breathless wonder that it uses up its own oxygen supply. Adults in the audience are prodded to recapture their long-lost moviegoing innocence, while their young companions are patiently directed to giggle warmly or gasp in amazement. But having someone whisper in your ear, “Ooh, how mysterious!” or shout, “Isn’t that funny?” has a way of spoiling the desired effect. Mr. Spielberg has always been a skilled manipulator of feeling. What’s startling here is how clumsy and uncertain his attempts seem.

What’s missing, above all, is the wild, palpable sense of excitement that has galvanized so many of Mr. Spielberg’s other juvenile adventures, from “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” to “The Adventures of Tintin.” His approach to the material is dutiful and appreciative, and his devotion to his own craft is impeccable. He lays out an imaginary world in meticulous detail but never grants it full life. There are delights on display, but not many surprises.

The exception might be Mr. Rylance, an extravagantly admired stage actor who was the central enigma and the emotional nexus of Mr. Spielberg’s “Bridge of Spies.” “The BFG” is a different kind of movie, and Mr. Rylance’s face and body have been enhanced and distorted by digital sorcery, but his unique blend of gravity and mischief imbues his fanciful character with a dimension of soul that the rest of the movie lacks.

“The BFG” is rated PG (Parental guidance suggested). Quiet sadness and loud flatulence. Running time: 1 hour 57 minutes.

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The BFG Review

22 Jul 2016

117 minutes

Roald Dahl has become easier since 1990 — the year the author died. When he was alive he was famously opinionated, raging at filmmakers for altering plot details or casting actors he didn’t approve of, then publicly campaigning against the films if his demands weren’t met. Some films escaped his wrath though, including the faithful-to-the-book 1989 animated version of The BFG . You’d imagine he’d be pleased with this, too: Steven Spielberg directing a script by his E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial screenwriter, the late Melissa Mathison .

Rylance is the perfect choice for this gentle, humble creature.

The story opens promisingly: John Williams ’ score builds excitement as Sophie (newcomer Ruby Barnhill ) explains how giants lurk in London at night, unseen to all except the insomniac orphan. Night-time London enchants like a fairy-tale city, while the first glimpses of the BFG are captivating. The prospect of a huge hand grabbing you out of your bed is one of the book’s thrills, and it’s translated well. Barnhill is a terrific young actor and her down-to-earth, bespectacled character is a far cry from Disney’s archetypal heroine.

Once we’re in his land, the full glory of the BFG unfolds: he’s a big-eared, wispy, white-haired CG wonder with the kind eyes of actor Mark Rylance , who was filmed using motion- capture cameras. Rylance — who won an Oscar for Spielberg’s Bridge Of Spies — is the perfect choice for this gentle, humble creature, and brings Dahl’s quirky dialogue to life in a soft West Country accent. Confused at first by the BFG’s muddled speech, Sophie soon learns (as we do) to love his unwittingly comical delivery, talking of human ‘beans’ and sharing his love for the fizzy drink Frobscottle, which leads to loud farts that will have kids squealing with delight.

But then something strange happens: nothing. For quite a long time. This act is heavy on dialogue between Sophie and the BFG, with scene after scene outstaying its welcome. Those who haven’t read the book might start shifting in their seats, wondering where all this is going. There’s little tension beyond visits from the nasty, bigger giants — voiced by Jemaine Clement and Bill Hader — who are intimidating enough, but underdeveloped. The BFG being bullied by the bigger boys certainly has underdog appeal, but the story pauses for too long in this repetitive loop.

It’s left to the final act to deliver — and in the nick of time, it does.

The BFG’s habit of collecting human dreams is also underused. There are a few strong visual dream-catching moments and an enjoyable visit into the head of a young boy who dreams he receives a call from the US President. But details such as this are too rare. It’s left to the final act to deliver — and in the nick of time, it does. Sophie and the BFG go to Buckingham Palace, where they change the dreams of the Queen (Penelope Wilton), in order to convince her giants are real. The Queen’s waking moments are perhaps the most thrilling of the film: will she believe the story of the little girl who is perched on her windowsill, and the giant who is lurking in the gardens?

Wilton is tremendous, and much-needed character humour comes from Rafe Spall as Mr. Tibbs, the kindly, slightly nervous butler who’s frantically trying to alert security to the intruder without breaking the moment. Rebecca Hall is lovely as the Queen’s maid, and a scene in which the BFG is lavished with breakfast — requiring multiple footmen delivering piles of eggs — proves Spielberg can do comedy. Not only does it recall the likes of Gulliver’s Travels , it reminds us what fantastical fun can come of a large cast as well as a large character.

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The BFG Reviews

“The BFG” is a delightfully heartwarming movie that may push away those looking to have their senses set ablaze by nonstop action and rampant silliness. But for those looking for an intelligent and engaging experience, “The BFG” more than delivers.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Aug 19, 2022

For any other filmmaker, this film would be a splendid Dahl adaptation. For Spielberg, it's far less than a dream come true.

Full Review | Original Score: 2.5/4 | Apr 11, 2022

There is genius, as you'd expect.

Full Review | Original Score: 2.5/4 | Mar 3, 2022

It's Spielberg's weakest movie since Hook.

Full Review | Original Score: C- | Aug 28, 2021

Whizzpoppers abound, much to the delight of all the kids in the audience.

Full Review | Aug 27, 2021

The BFG reminded me of the scene in (of all things) History of the World: Part I in which a bored Emperor Nero (Dom DeLuise) is presented with a wooden bathtub and mutters, "Nice. Nice. Not thrilling, but nice."

Full Review | Original Score: 2/4 | Aug 18, 2021

The good worth seeking out.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Jul 14, 2021

Spielberg deserves credit for trusting, rightly, that the enduring appeal of Dahl's characters will be enough to make his BFG a big-screen hit.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Jun 9, 2021

The star of "the movie is Spielberg, whose sense of wonder is infused in every frame.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Feb 3, 2021

The BFG is a poignant, casually bold film, unconcerned with what the market research suggests children need and instead giving them what they have always wanted...

Full Review | Jan 6, 2021

Contains plenty of visual magic, but very little movie magic.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/10 | Dec 4, 2020

As the film's heroine, newcomer Ruby Barnhill is ideally cast. Barnhill's Sophie is both wise old soul and vulnerable young girl.

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/4.0 | Sep 3, 2020

Spielberg is big enough to make any picture he wants, but here it seems he's simply going through the motions.

Full Review | Original Score: C | Jul 13, 2020

The BFG isn't a travesty or a tragedy, it simply isn't anything special or memorable. Brilliant visuals aside, there's little warmth or heart or wonder to behold.

Full Review | Original Score: C | Jul 3, 2020

After finishing this fantastic adventure, this great children's event, or whatever, I'm happier than a lottery winner knowing that I will never see it again. [Full review in Spanish]

Full Review | Original Score: 4/10 | Jun 27, 2020

While The BFG is perhaps a lesser Spielberg film, his lesser efforts are better than the best efforts of many others. This is a film of genuine kindness...

Full Review | Feb 13, 2020

A vivid storytelling piece with vision and fantasy.

Full Review | Feb 4, 2020

Thankfully, Spielberg's The BFG stays faithful to the treasured Roald Dahl young adult novel with old-fashioned storytelling...

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/4 | Jan 23, 2020

The BFG should have been more OMG, and maybe a little more LOL but it's still more than A-OK.

Full Review | Oct 22, 2019

There are treasures to be unearthed in the loving and poignant last cinematic words of Mathison's adaptation.

Full Review | Oct 11, 2019

The BFG Review

Spielberg adapts dahl in sweet family film..

Spielberg aiming for the grandkids rather than the older youth market is still full of good-natured charm and wonder, but there’s also a more subdued feel at play here. If The BFG occasionally whizzes, it never pops off the screen like the very best Spielberg fantasies do, despite the best efforts of Mark Rylance’s genial giant. Mid-level Spielberg is still streets ahead of much of the competition, of course, but any recommendations must come with the caveat that this director has explored the bond between a young child and his otherworldly friend so much more effectively before. And by those incredibly high standards, The BFG isn’t quite one to phone home about.

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The BFG (2016)

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2016 Directed by Steven Spielberg

The world is more giant than you can imagine.

The BFG is no ordinary bone-crunching giant. He is far too nice and jumbly. It's lucky for Sophie that he is. Had she been carried off in the middle of the night by the Bloodbottler, or any of the other giants—rather than the BFG—she would have soon become breakfast. When Sophie hears that the giants are flush-bunking off to England to swollomp a few nice little chiddlers, she decides she must stop them once and for all. And the BFG is going to help her!

Mark Rylance Ruby Barnhill Rebecca Hall Jemaine Clement Bill Hader Penelope Wilton Marilyn Norry Chris Shields Matt Frewer Geoffrey Wade Rafe Spall Haig Sutherland John Emmet Tracy Adam Godley Daniel Bacon Paul Moniz de Sa Ólafur Darri Ólafsson Michael Adamthwaite Gabrielle Rose Lucia Ryan Julia Torrance Graham Curry Jonathan Holmes Chris Gibbs Callum Seagram Airlie Shauna Hansen Denise Jones William Samples Andy Thompson Show All… Paul Barnhill Gintare Beinoraviciute Gerardo Barcala Simona Hughes

Director Director

Steven Spielberg

Producers Producers

Sam Mercer Steven Spielberg Frank Marshall Adam Somner

Executive Producers Exec. Producers

Kathleen Kennedy John Madden Michael Siegel Kristie Macosko Krieger

Writer Writer

Melissa Mathison

Original Writer Original Writer

Casting casting.

Nina Gold Corinne Clark Jennifer Page

Editor Editor

Michael Kahn

Cinematography Cinematography

Janusz Kamiński

Production Design Production Design

Rick Carter Robert Stromberg

Art Direction Art Direction

Chris Beach Stefan Dechant Margot Ready Rebecca Milton

Set Decoration Set Decoration

Elizabeth Wilcox

Special Effects Special Effects

Steven Saunders

Stunts Stunts

Composer composer.

John Williams

Sound Sound

Gary Rydstrom Richard Hymns Jana Vance Dee Selby John Roesch Andy Nelson Chris Scarabosio E. Larry Oatfield Tom Lalley Chris Manning Pedro Sánchez Alonso

Costume Design Costume Design

Joanna Johnston David Davenport

Makeup Makeup

Charles Porlier Jennifer Machnee Lois Burwell Dorothee Deichmann

Hairstyling Hairstyling

Kay Georgiou Sherry Linder-Gygli

Walt Disney Pictures Amblin Entertainment Reliance Entertainment Walden Media The Kennedy/Marshall Company

Releases by Date

14 may 2016, 30 jun 2016, 01 jun 2016, 28 jun 2016, 01 jul 2016, 07 jul 2016, 08 jul 2016, 20 jul 2016, 21 jul 2016, 22 jul 2016, 10 aug 2016, 11 aug 2016, 01 sep 2016, 02 sep 2016, 17 sep 2016, 13 oct 2016, 30 dec 2016, 28 nov 2016, 30 nov 2016, 09 dec 2016, 12 dec 2016, 18 jan 2017, releases by country.

• Theatrical PG
• Theatrical L
• Theatrical 7
• Theatrical K7
• Premiere Cannes Film Festival
• Theatrical U
• Theatrical 0
• Theatrical Κ
• Physical DVD, Blu-ray
• Theatrical T

Netherlands

• Theatrical 6
• Physical 6 DVD, Blu ray
• Theatrical od 7 lat

Russian Federation

• Premiere 12+
• Theatrical 12+

South Korea

• Theatrical ALL
• Theatrical APTA
• Theatrical 普通級
• Physical PG
• Theatrical 0+

117 mins   More at IMDb TMDb Report this page

Popular reviews

Review by James (Schaffrillas) ★½ 1

A giant gets hit in the balls

Review by davidehrlich ★★½ 4

WHYYY???????

10-year-old me could have told you that the world didn't need (and couldn't use) a hollywood adaptation of THE BFG.

Spielberg directs the shit out of it (it's best moments have the warmth and visual wit of a live-action Miyazaki movie), and it's hard to imagine someone making a better adaptation from the same source material (that Mark Rylance sure knows what's up), but *oooof* is it obvious that there isn't really a movie here.

Review by iana ★★½ 2

so like what happens in this movie

Review by Eli Hayes ★★★ 16

The entire sequence in the Castle is simply priceless.

Review by Wood ★★ 2

Never has the abduction of child been done with so much whimsy, I guess.

Review by Kevflix And Chill ★★★

My son read this book in class and wanted to watch it with my parents at our Easter gathering. Obviously, it’s well crafted, but it doesn’t really live up to the potential of a Spielberg-Disney collaboration on a Roald Dahl adaptation. The best parts are when the BFG is hiding in plain sight throughout the streets of London. Outside of those sequences, I find the film to be largely forgettable. I’d rather rewatch Jack the Giant Slayer almost any day. 

Degrees of Kevin Bacon: 1 1. Rebecca Hall and Kevin Bacon in Frost/Nixon 

Review by matt lynch ★★★ 6

Spielberg's formal elegance can't be discounted and so this isn't a HOOK-level crime, but Dahl maybe shouldn't feel quite so innocuous. This wakes up when some of his slippery weirdness leeches in toward the last third, but the goofy giant-speak and chasing all the little glowing balls around (right out of the book, but still) was pretty eye-crossing for me.

Review by CinemaJoe ★★ 8

Some stories work really well as an adaptation, while some do not. The BFG is the latter.

Review by dmartsfilm ★★★

The first Disney film Spielberg had done in his illustrious career is a fun family fare full of giant farts and giants! The BFG is full of that patented Spielberg whimsy and wonderment. It definitely is slanted more at children and by doing so it loses some of its universal appeal to me. Not only that, but the story feels like it is being stretched out on one of those medieval torture devices. The story would've probably worked better in an animated film or even a short film.

Spielberg decided to make it a feature so this is what we have. There are a handful of amazing sequences that he directs wonderfully. The film is just a bit too stretched…

Review by jeniffer ★★½

i fought with my mom for legit 10 minutes bc she kept insisting the bfg was played by sean penn

Review by Rafael "Parker!!" Jovine ★★★ 2

Action!: The Caps Of Mr. Spielberg

Disney and Steven Spielberg working together sounds like a match made on heaven. I remember when the movie was being made, everyone was pretty exciting for this one as, believe it or not, Spielberg and Disney has never worked together per se. I say per se, because he has worked with Buena Vista and Touchstone before. Add to that the fact that he's tackling a Roald Dahl's book - it was just so perfect. And as we know, perfection doesn't really exist in this broken world.

Starting with the positives, the cinematography is incredible. The production design and world building is pretty interesting and was almost fascinating. Rylance's delivers much emotion than on Bridge…

Review by DirkH ★★ 9

This was one of my favourite books when I was a kid. In Dutch this was called 'De Grote Vriendelijke Reus', De GVR for short. Boys being boys, we turned this abbreviation into De GodVerdomme Roeper, which basically translates as The Goddamnit Shouter. We were so cool and tough.

I'll be sticking to this memory and the book as far as The BFG is concerned and not this piece of forgettable fluff.

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The BFG (2016) Review

Strange though it may sound, Steven Spielberg and Disney have never made a movie together before now. That barely seems possible given that they essentially specialize in the same brand of giddy family entertainment rooted in wonderment. Yet, somehow those streams just never crossed before, so it’s exciting now that they finally have for The BFG . Not only does the film unite a movie studio known for its beloved children’s fantasies with a director famous for implanting iconic images in a generation of young cinemagoers, but it also mixes in one of the most enduring children’s novelists of all time:Roald Dahl.

The man behind The Witches and Charlie And The Chocolate factory is a bit too British and morbid for Spielberg and Disney most of the time. But, The BFG is the softest and sweetest book on Dahl’s shelf, boasting the word friendly right in the title. It’s also one of Dahl’s lesser works, and Spielberg’s desire to stay surprisingly true to the source material ensures that the movie’s a lesser Spielberg offeringproduction as well. Thankfully, lesser Spielberg is still better than most directors at the absolute peak of their powers.

The BFG  stars one of Spielberg’s favourite tropes: a plucky youngster more attuned to the world than the adults around her. In this case Ruby Barnhill plays Sophie, an orphan snatched up from her bed one night by the hands of a giant. Thankfully, it’s the Big Friendly Giant (see title) played by Mark Rylance. He lives in a land populated by giants who enjoy munching on children stolen from our world. However, The BFG is a vegetarian and the smallest and gentlest of his kind. At first Sophie is a bit miffed by the whole kidnapping thing, but gradually she is charmed by her captor as he shows her how he catches dreams and sneakily blows them into the brains of slumbering humans during the night. This makes up roughly the first thirty minutes or so of The BFG  and it is by far the best section. The material gives Spielberg the chance to fill the screen with the type of grand, transporting images of wonderment that made his name. The use of scale is impressive, particularly in 3D. The unrelenting score from John Williams provides all of the spine tingles that he’s known for. Barnhill delivers an impressive, grounded performance that proves good ol’ Spielberg has lost none of his special touch with young performers. Yet, the most impressive achievement is the director’s work with Mark Rylance as the titular BFG.

The motion capture performance that Rylance and a team of CGI wizards deliver is absolutely remarkable, enough to make even Andy Serkis jealous. Rylance is a subtle performer who does a great deal with the smallest of facial movements, which the effects team capture beautifully while still retaining the cartoony design from Dahl’s original book. It’s an incredible creation, perhaps even something of a humanistic milestone in the ever-expanding world of mo-cap performance. Unfortunately, the rest of the movie can’t quite live up to the beautiful opening act.

Aside from slightly toning down the children-munching tendencies of the evil giants, the script written by Spielberg’s late E.T. collaborator Melissa Mathison sticks remarkably close to the source material, much to the film’s detriment. Roald Dahl was a great writer, no doubt about it. However, his greatest strengths were wordy wit, devilish imagination, and perverse humour. Plotting was never his strong suit and The BFG was always one of his weaker stories. The second act features Sophie and The BFG dodging attacks from evil giants led by the always delightful Jemaine Clement.

It’s fine, but repetitive. Mostly it’s an excuse for Spielberg to indulge in some of the massive single take CG action scenes he started in The Adventures Of Tintin , and once again they are more technically impressive than actually viscerally thrilling. Then comes a deus ex machina third act involving the Queen that feels like a bit of a cop out aside from a few great fart jokes (which Spielberg handles with style, to be fair). For the most part, it’s frightfully British slapstick that Spielberg overdoes because slapstick is one of his great weaknesses as a filmmaker. He’s good at comic relief in genre fare, but not at straight comedy, and much of the final third of The BFG recalls the hit n’ miss excesses of his 1979 flick 1941. It’s well staged technically, just not particularly funny. That’s a problem and brings the movie to a close on a down note.

Still, while The BFG might sag a bit and stutter to a stop, that actually makes it an honest adaptation of the source material. It’s hardly a bad film, just one that doesn’t quite add up to the sum of its considerable parts. When the blockbuster works, Spielberg serves up magical imagery that truly transports viewers and reminds them how little imagination and cinematic talent make it into most massive CGI blockbusters.

Those sequences pop up regularly, and whenever Spielberg gets a chance to tug on the heartstrings, the big dopey cartoon offers surprisingly emotional heft. It’s a delightful bit of family entertainment, just one that is neither as funny as it thinks it is nor particularly narratively satisfying. It’s a shame Spielberg wasn’t more liberal in his adaptation, but chances are he felt too indebted to the memories of both Dahl and Mathison to mess with the script. Or maybe his heart just isn’t as in this brand of mass entertainment as it once was.

It has been a decade since Spielberg’s last pure blockbuster hit in War Of The Worlds ( Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull doesn’t count as far as I’m concerned) and even that one was laced with adult themes and darker imagery. We may think of Spielberg as the ultimate child-friendly populist, but he’s actually matured into a someone who makes genre movies for grownups ever since Schindler’s List . Perhaps he should stick with that. The BFG might delight more than most family fare, but only because the competition is so thin. Last year’s Bridge Of Spies showed Spielberg far more engaged as a filmmaker, and perhaps those sorts of projects should be his focus from here on out. Sure, Spielberg would be missed during the summer blockbuster season that he created, but at least the movies that he makes in the twilight of his career would have more of a chance of ranking amongst his best.

Final Thoughts

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• Movie Review: The Bfg

Movie Review: The BFG

The BFG Rachit Gupta, November 8, 2016

• The BFG Movie Review

Rating: 3.5 stars Quick take: Adventure of gigantic proportions Disney's iteration of Roald Dahl's classic, The BFG is a wonderful children's film. That it's helmed by Steven Spielberg is a highlight and the definitive feature of the movie. Spielberg's hallmarks are unmistakably apparent during the runtime of The BFG. This movie brings a sense of technical and technological marvel to filmmaking. Something that only Spielberg can do. Something he's been doing since time immemorial with titles like Close Encounters Of The Third Kind and ET. And The BFG benefits immensely from his ability to tell a story with the requisite finesse and wonder. The story deals with a young orphan girl named Sophie (Ruby Barnhill) and her adventurous tryst with a giant simply called Big Friendly Giant aka BFG (Mark Rylance). BFG first kidnaps Sophie when she spots him sneaking around the nighttime in London. He takes her to Giant Country where she learns of other man-eating giants who also bully BFG and call him Runt. Sophie also discovers that BFG catches dreams in this wonderland and then secretly gives out these dreams to sleeping humans. With the other malicious giants out to eat Sophie, the young girl and the gentle giant have quite an adventure. The BFG isn't just a technological dreamscape it's also a heartwarming story of friendship, compassion and courage. These are old school values, and no one sells them better than Steven Spielberg. The motion capture technology used to animate BFG from Mark Rylance's efforts is just superlative. There are moments when it does get a bit dodgy, you have to look very closely with extreme scrutiny to spot the inconsistency in CGI, but even then the BFG looks like an absolute delight. Rylance was last seen in Spielberg's Bridge Of Spies and his act here of the bumbling but very loveable giant is a superb performance. His jumbled lingo is like music to your ears. The moments when BFG takes giant leaps and propels himself into his world beyond the clouds is just an immersive experience that has to be felt first hand. It's really exhilarating. Ruby Barnhill, all of 11-years-old, is the cutest kid in movies this year. She's guaranteed to melt your heart. The only grouse you can express towards The BFG is that it takes too much time in the first half, to establish it's story. The first half saunters at a leisurely pace, but that does allow the viewer to soak in the wonder of Giant Country, a place of sheer magic. But the second half and the scenes featuring Queen Elizabeth at the Buckingham Palace are hilarious and thoroughly entertaining. The BFG has the perfect blend of action, emotion and drama. Thanks to Spielberg the movie takes the right pauses and pushes in the right kind of emotions with dialogue that can haunt you for ages. This may be a children's flick, but it's emotional depth and cinematic value is strong enough to impress even the most cold individual. The sheer warmth of emotions in The BFG can even melt the iciest of hearts.

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Home » Movies » Bollywood Movie Reviews

The BFG Review

Rating: 3.5/5 Stars (Three and half stars)

Star Cast:  Mark Rylance, Ruby Barnhill, Penelope Wilton, Jemaine Clement, Rebecca Hall

Director: Steven Spielberg

What’s Good: Speilberg’s The BFG hits the right notes for kids and adults. The film’s moving storyline clubbed with a marvelous execution make up for a great watch!

What’s Bad: The dubbed version of the film becomes highly irritating thanks to a Bhojpuri accent given to Mark Rylance’s gentle giant.

Loo Break: If needed!

Watch or Not?: The   BFG is a lovely watch for both kids and adults. Although I would strictly suggest you to choose the original (English) version over the dubbed one!

On a fateful night, little Sophie (Ruby Barnhill) who’s grappling with insomnia, lands her eyes on an unusual thing in the eerie streets of London. Like what she’s heard in stories told by her Matron, she ends up facing a big giant (Mark Rylance) who soon whisks her away to the ‘Giant world’ (Daitya nation in Hindi).

Initially scared, Sophie soon realizes that he is a kind hearted, vegetarian giant who does not intent to eat her. The Stockholm syndrome starts to develop.

They become friends until the rest of his kind such as the blood sucking giant, the insect eating giant and the flesh eating giant confront him about bringing a human back home.

Will the Big friendly giant (Bade Farishte Ji) be able to save Sophie from the clutches of the other giants is what is left to see.

The BFG Review: Script Analysis

Adapting Roald Dahl’s famous classic The Big Friendly Giant, Spielberg tones it down slightly with his writers and comes up with an endearing tale of friendship, kindness and love in a beautiful manner.

To make the movie kid-friendly, we do not see any dark stuff on the giant’s part which differs slightly from the book.

As per the book, BFG’s speech patterns are hazy and hence is often seen messing up words whilst talking. In this Hindi version of the film, the wordplay goes like ‘Maharani’ becomes ‘Marjani’ and so on.

The melancholic journey of BFG and Sophie is presented with great emotional highs and lows through a tight narrative.

While fart jokes are rarely funny, the one in this film is a total exception. It is sure to make you laugh like a kid!

A little bit of action too is enthused in the script with a vehicular rollerskating scene where the other giants bully BFG.

The film slightly slows down with a few blank spaces in the plot, until it once again picks itself up with Sophie’s smart plans to save herself and her friend.

The second half portion with Queen of England may seem outstretched but is actually a visual delight.

The BFG Review: Star Performance

Talking about acting, after his famous works such as The Bridge Of Spies and Lincoln, Mark Rylance brings to life the Big Friendly Giant in the most lovable manner ever. This motion capture has him look all lanky and shabby yet so likable with the kind eyes.

Ruby Barnhill too packs a punch as Sophie who is a confident, well-read, brave girl. She has no scare in correcting her giant friend every now and then with his fuzzy language. Ruby reminds us a lot of Mara Wilson’s Matilda act.

Coming to the voiceovers, with his famous baritone, Amitabh Bachchan lends his voice to Rylane’s giant. No doubt that he is splendid but thanks to a poor translation and the awful twang, Big B’s vocal antics seem slightly over the top for a gentle Rylance.

As for Sophie, Parineeti Chopra seems to be trying hard to sound like a child more than enthusing it with the right emotions.

Gulshan Grover dubs for the deadly giant who’s hunting Sophie. Grover does a great job and blends well with the visually disgusting giants.

The BFG Review: Direction, Music

Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of Dahl’s novel is like poetry in motion. The stunning visuals keep you hooked all through, right from the very first scene of London’s eerie streets from the post war times.

The director with his trusted cinematographer, Janusz Kaminski brings to the screen a beautiful representation of the Giant country and the place where dreams are captured.

The entire scene where we see BFG taking Sophie along to capture dreams is mesmerizing. Dreams flying around like fireflies is captured brilliantly for a 3D viewing.

Also, the sequence of BFG visiting the Queen is directed so cleverly that one has to chuckle all the way through it. Be it the intelligent display of stuff like how vintage clocks and pianos become BFG’s dinner table and swords become knives for his lavish breakfast. Also, how the otherwise matured Sophie is seem gulping down whipped cream laced strawberries at the breakfast with Queen, a subtle reminder of her being a little kid who has lost out on such amenities and love.

The background score is significant of kids fantasy film and could have been tweaked a little for additional fun.

BFG’s pace is slightly slow and that could serve as a problem to most of us who are accustomed to speedy films.

The BFG Review: The Last Word

The BFG is a marvelous film thanks to Mark Rylance’s adorable portrayal as a giant and Speilberg’s direction that makes us embrace the inner child in us. A 3.5/5 for this fun ride to the Giant country!

The BFG Trailer

The BFG releases on 29th July, 2016.

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The BFG Movie Streaming, Cast, Rating, Review

Table of Contents

The BFG Movie Streaming, Cast, Rating, Review – “The BFG,” also known as “Roald Dahl’s The BFG,” is a captivating 2016 American fantasy adventure film directed and co-produced by the legendary Steven Spielberg. It is based on the beloved 1982 novel of the same name by Roald Dahl and was one of the last works written by screenwriter Melissa Mathison before her passing in 2015. The film boasts an ensemble cast, including Mark Rylance, Ruby Barnhill, Penelope Wilton, Jemaine Clement, Rebecca Hall, Rafe Spall, and Bill Hader. It revolves around the extraordinary friendship between a ten-year-old orphan named Sophie and a benevolent giant known as the “Big Friendly Giant” (BFG). Together, they embark on a whimsical adventure to Giant Country to stop the man-eating giants from terrorizing the human world.

The BFG Movie Story Pagalmovies

The story of “The BFG” begins with Sophie, a ten-year-old girl living in a London orphanage. She is often awake during the “witching hour,” a peculiar time when supernatural events can occur. One fateful night, Sophie dares to shout at some menacing men in an alley, not realizing that this act will forever change her life.

Suddenly, an elderly and immensely tall figure, the Giant Man, appears outside her window. He swiftly captures Sophie and whisks her away to his hidden home in Giant Country. Initially, Sophie is understandably frightened. However, she soon discovers that this giant is not like the others who inhabit Giant Country. He is kind-hearted, gentle, and, most importantly, he is against the cruel man-eating giants that dominate his world.

The giant reveals to Sophie that he cannot permit her to return to her world because doing so would risk exposing the existence of giants to humanity. If she ventures out alone, she could be devoured by the nine much larger and menacing giants who terrorize Giant Country.

In a magical workshop within his home, the BFG creates dreams for humans. However, when he senses that Sophie is not content with staying, he crafts a nightmare to persuade her to remain safely hidden from the other giants. Their leader, the Fleshlumpeater, interrupts this tender moment, demanding that the BFG fix a “boo-boo” on his finger. Suspicion arises as the giant smells Sophie’s presence, but the BFG cleverly distracts the menacing giant by having him taste a snozzcumber, a disgusting vegetable hidden by Sophie. The snozzcumber nearly repels the Fleshlumpeater, allowing Sophie to escape discovery.

Sophie persuades the gentle giant to take her on an adventure to Dream Country. Inadvertently, they awaken the other man-eating giants, leading to a series of perilous events. The giants, led by the Bloodbottler, decide to “frolic” with the BFG, subjecting him to their taunts and bullying. As a thunderstorm approaches, the man-eating giants retreat to their cave, but not before the Fleshlumpeater discovers Sophie’s dropped blanket, raising the stakes.

In Dream Country, Sophie and the BFG collect both good and bad dreams, each caught in magical jars. It is during this time that the BFG reveals his only name—besides the derogatory nickname “Runt” given to him by the other giants—he is the “Big Friendly Giant,” hence “BFG.” Sophie accompanies him to London for his nightly mission: using a dream trumpet to distribute pleasant dreams to sleeping children. Upon completing their mission, they return to Giant Country, only to find that the other giants have departed on a gruesome hunt for children worldwide.

Realizing that Sophie has lost her blanket, inadvertently revealing her presence to the man-eating giants, the BFG makes a heart-wrenching decision to leave her outside her orphanage. He shares the story of his previous human companion, a young boy who enjoyed reading and even taught the BFG how to read. Tragically, the boy was discovered and devoured by the man-eating giants. The BFG is unwilling to put Sophie in harm’s way, so he leaves her behind.

Undaunted, Sophie takes a leap of faith, literally, by jumping off her balcony, hoping the BFG will return to catch her. He does so, and their reunion is a heartwarming moment. Together, they return to the BFG’s workshop, but their peaceful existence is shattered when the other man-eating giants storm in, hunting for Sophie. In the ensuing chaos, much of the BFG’s work is destroyed, but Sophie manages to evade detection, and the BFG defends them with a hot iron.

During her exploration of the BFG’s home, Sophie stumbles upon the belongings of the last human to have lived with the BFG. Among his possessions is a portrait of Queen Victoria. Inspired by this discovery, Sophie concocts a daring plan: to forge a nightmare for Queen Elizabeth II. The nightmare depicts the man-eating giants devouring children, with the British Army battling them and Sophie herself appearing as the savior.

Sophie and the BFG travel to Buckingham Palace to deliver the nightmare to the slumbering Queen. Upon awakening, the Queen, along with her staff members Mary and Mr. Tibbs, is astonished to find Sophie on the windowsill. She introduces them to the BFG and explains that the child-eating giants are real and must be stopped. Over a hearty breakfast, the BFG introduces the Queen and her staff to his favorite and unconventional drink, “frobscottle,” which induces flatulence. Together, Sophie and the BFG lead the Queen’s soldiers on a mission to confront the man-eating giants in their own territory.

The BFG devises a plan to ambush the man-eating giants using a nightmare. However, as the crucial moment approaches, he realizes that he has forgotten his dream trumpet. Unflinchingly, Sophie takes on the responsibility of carrying the nightmare herself into the midst of the giants. She comes face-to-face with the menacing Fleshlumpeater and releases the nightmare. The consuming guilt that follows impacts all the giants except the remorseless Fleshlumpeater, who intercepts and destroys his own nightmare. The giants are subsequently trapped by military helicopters and transported to an isolated island, where they are left with only snozzcumber seeds to plant.

Sophie, now part of a loving family with Mary, lives in the Queen’s palace. She awakens from a dream of the BFG, who has returned to his peaceful life in Giant Country. The film closes on a touching note, as Sophie continues to speak to the BFG whenever she feels lonely, and, remarkably, he hears her words from afar, bringing smiles to both their faces.

The BFG Movie Review Filmyhit

In the whimsical and heartwarming world of “The BFG,” directed by the visionary Steven Spielberg, the audience is transported to a realm of enchantment and wonder. This 2016 adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s classic is nothing short of magical, weaving a tale of friendship, courage, and dreams.

From the moment the film begins, Spielberg’s mastery of storytelling is evident. His ability to immerse viewers in a fantastical world is unparalleled. “The BFG” unfolds as a soothing lullaby, inviting the audience to journey alongside the central characters, Sophie and the BFG, as they discover the power of friendship and dreams.

Visually, the film is a masterpiece. The 3D visual imagery, live-action sequences, and motion-capture technology are seamlessly integrated to create a visually stunning world that captures the essence of Dahl’s original story. Spielberg’s direction shines through in every frame, as he skillfully balances the spectacle with the emotional depth of the characters.

At the heart of “The BFG” is the exceptional performances of its cast. Mark Rylance’s portrayal of the BFG is nothing short of extraordinary. With his expressive eyes and gentle demeanor, Rylance captures the essence of a character who is both endearing and vulnerable. He tugs at the heartstrings of the audience, drawing them into the world of the BFG.

Ruby Barnhill, in her film debut, delivers a remarkable performance as Sophie. Her portrayal of the smart and resourceful young girl is both charming and relatable. The chemistry between Barnhill and Rylance is palpable, and their banter adds a layer of entertainment to the film.

The climax of “The BFG” is a true highlight. As the story reaches its crescendo, the film’s pacing is expertly handled, thanks in part to an engaging royal subplot. This adds a sense of urgency and excitement to the proceedings, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

The film’s underlying message of the power of dreams and the importance of standing up against adversity resonates deeply. Spielberg successfully recreates the magic he brought to “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” infusing “The BFG” with a similar moving storyline and an enchanting background score.

In conclusion, “The BFG” is a cinematic gem that appeals to both children and adults. It combines stunning visuals, exceptional performances, and Spielberg’s storytelling magic to create an unforgettable experience. The film stays true to the standard of excellence set by the director and Roald Dahl’s timeless tale. “The BFG” is a delightful journey into the world of dreams, friendship, and the power of the human spirit.

(Amitabh Bachchan, Parineeti Chopra, and Gulshan Grover have lent their voices to the dubbed version of the film in Hindi, adding to its global appeal.)

In this extended version, we’ve delved deeper into the story and provided a more comprehensive review of “The BFG.” Feel free to use this content as needed.

The BFG Movie Cast Filmyzilla

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Is The BFG suitable for a 4-year-old?

“The BFG” movie may not be suitable for a 4-year-old due to some scenes that might be too intense or frightening for young children. It has moments of suspense and peril, as well as the presence of menacing giants. Parental discretion is advised, and it’s a good idea for parents or guardians to watch the film first to determine if it’s appropriate for their child’s age and temperament.

What does BFG stand for in The BFG movie?

In “The BFG” movie, BFG stands for “Big Friendly Giant.” The BFG is the main character of the story, and despite his enormous size, he is known for being kind-hearted and friendly, which sets him apart from the other, less benevolent giants in Giant Country. Sophie, the young girl in the story, affectionately calls him BFG as a shortened form of his title.

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Movie Review film The BFG

The BFG: A Whimsical Journey into the World of Dreams and Giants

Released in 2016 and directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg, “The BFG” is a heartwarming fantasy-adventure film that brings to life the beloved children’s book by Roald Dahl. The film transports audiences into a world of dreams, whimsy, and giants, as it follows the extraordinary friendship between a young orphan named Sophie and a gentle giant known as the BFG. In this article, we’ll explore the enchanting plot, the magical characters, and the film’s themes of friendship and the power of imagination.

Sophie and the BFG: Unlikely Friends

At the heart of “The BFG” lies the endearing friendship between Sophie, portrayed by Ruby Barnhill, and the BFG, brought to life by the talents of Mark Rylance. Sophie, a lonely orphan who can’t sleep at night, encounters the BFG one fateful evening, and their lives are forever changed. The film beautifully captures the essence of their bond, which transcends their differences and becomes a source of strength and adventure.

The Giant Country and Dream Jars

“The BFG” takes viewers on a journey to the magical Giant Country, a land inhabited by various giants, each with a distinct personality and appearance. The BFG, the kindest of them all, captures dreams in colorful jars and shares them with children all over the world. This element of the film is a testament to the power of dreams and the idea that they can bring comfort and joy, even in the darkest of times.

Spielberg’s Visual Magic

As expected from a Spielberg film, “The BFG” boasts stunning visuals and captivating cinematography. The film brings to life the fantastical landscapes of Giant Country, the breathtaking Dream Country, and the bustling streets of London, where Sophie and the BFG embark on their adventures. The visual effects seamlessly blend the real world with the magical, creating a sense of wonder and awe.

Friendship and Imagination

“The BFG” celebrates the themes of friendship and imagination. Sophie and the BFG’s adventures are filled with creativity, from frolicking in a meadow of dream flowers to devising a plan to stop the other, more sinister giants. Their friendship highlights the idea that connections can be found in the most unexpected places and that imagination has the power to change the world.

“The BFG” is a delightful and enchanting film that captures the spirit of Roald Dahl’s beloved story while adding Spielberg’s cinematic magic. The film’s endearing characters, captivating visuals, and timeless themes of friendship and imagination make it a heartwarming and unforgettable experience for viewers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of the original book or simply appreciate a whimsical adventure, “The BFG” offers a journey into a world where dreams come to life, giants have hearts of gold, and friendship knows no bounds.

Mr. Mounir Boutaib

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‘Quiz Lady’ Review: Awkwafina and Sandra Oh Are Hilarious Together in Low-Concept Hulu Comedy

Jessica Yu's sitcom-style sisters setup boasts the sort of plot you'd find in a kids movie, but works well enough, thanks to the leads' comic chemistry.

By Peter Debruge

Peter Debruge

Chief Film Critic

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Chances are, you know someone like “ Quiz Lady ” Anne Yum. As played by Awkwafina , this socially awkward young woman works a boring CPA job by day, doing her best to blend in with the gray walls of her cubicle. But every evening at the same hour, Anne tunes in to her favorite game show and becomes a star — even if her flatulent old pug, Mr. Linguini, is the only witness — as she answers every question quickly and correctly.

The movie isn’t nearly as concerned with whether or not Anne wins — although screenwriter Jen D’Angelo (“Hocus Pocus 2”) comes up with a pretty funny idea for the game’s charades-based final round — as it is with mending all the broken connections in her family life. Anne’s the daughter of Korean-immigrant parents. Dad walked out in her tween years, leaving the poor kid to form an unhealthy fixation on bow tie-clad cornball McTeer in his absence.

Rebellious Jenny was older and already more independent when their parents split (best to ignore the age difference between Awkwafina and Oh and concentrate on their comedic chemistry instead), leaving home to seek her fortune. Now they’ve been reunited after their mother’s rest home calls with a poorly worded message: “We’ve lost your mom.” Turns out, Mom ran up a huge gambling tab and skipped the country (she’s living it up in Macao), and now her creditors are holding Mr. Linguini hostage until Anne pays up. How can she ever raise the money?

Granted, this is the level of plotting you expect from “Garfield: The Movie,” not Oscar-winning “Ping Pong Playa” director Yu and the likes of Ferrell and Awkwafina. But it’s the laughs that matter, and Oh surprises as Anne’s brash, trashy and totally unselfconscious big sis, who can get up on the bar at a Philadelphia tavern and rally a room full of strangers. While Anne’s embarrassed by the slightest bit of conflict, disruptive Jenny abhors obedience — she’s a roll of Mentos dropped into her sister’s placid Diet Coke life.

Nothing’s more specific than the observations that derive from Awkwafina and Oh’s own backgrounds. With Yu at the helm, the movie is free to poke fun at immigrant parents, Asian stereotypes and the clash between prejudice and political correctness (as in this online response to a viral video of Anne answering questions at home: “How hating the quiz lady is racist, but liking her is even MORE racist”). The script folds stand-up and improv humor into a conventional enough story, to the point that “Quiz Lady” could have been a Disney movie, if not for the scene where a stressed-out Anne takes a whole bunch of drugs right before her big audition.

This isn’t highbrow comedy, but it is effective at being both funny and sincere, as the rowdy quiz-show scheme serves to bring the sisters together. Throw in a Paul Reubens cameo that the filmmakers couldn’t possibly have expected to be his last, and this modest-ambition comedy delivers. In the end, the only thing “Quiz Lady” had to get right was making people smile.

Reviewed at Toronto Film Festival (Special Screenings), Sept. 9, 2023. MPA Rating: R. Running time: 100 MIN.

• Production: A Hulu release of a 20th Century Studios presentation of a Gloria Sanchez, Artists First production. Producers: Awkwafina, Sandra Oh, Jen D'Angelo, Maggie Haskins, Itay Reiss, Will Ferrell, Jessica Elbaum. Executive producers: Alex Brown, Erika Hampson.
• Crew: Director: Jessica Yu. Screenplay: Jen D'Angelo. Camera: Adrian Peng Correia. Editors: Nat Sanders, Susan Vaill. Music: Nick Urata.
• With: Awkwafina, Sandra Oh, Will Ferrell, Holland Taylor, Jason Schwartzman, Tawny Newsome, Paul Reubens, Tony Hale.

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The morning after a wild night of dancing on roller skates and cavorting with not one but two hot men, Alex ( Adèle Exarchopoulos ) returns to her rented villa, curling up next to her best friend, Carole ( Mélanie Laurent ). Carole takes one look at Alex's face—all bruised on one side, with fresh cuts on her lip and eyebrow—and gasps, "What happened to you?" Alex replies, in a flat, "it's no big deal," voice, "I'll tell you later." They move on to another subject. Alex never does "tell her later." In what world is returning home post-hook-up covered not just in bruises but open wounds "no big deal"? 

In "Wingwomen," directed by Laurent, it makes sense. It's also funny, and the film is filled with similar humor: unexpected, gently delivered, relationship-based. There are no broad or obvious "jokes." It's the way friends are often funny with each other, their shorthand, the spontaneous fits of giggles, the way you don't need to spell anything out. "Wingwomen," based on the graphic novel The Grand Odalisque  by Jérôme Mulot , Florent Ruppert , and Bastien Vivès, is an action-packed heist film, but it leaves enormous room for the most important thing: Carole and Alex's friendship.

Buddy-comedy plus action-adventure is well-trod mostly male-dominated ground. There are some extremely popular exceptions (" Thelma and Louise " being the most obvious). "Wingwomen" doesn't unfold like a self-conscious self-important course correction where two "badass" women kick ass together. Carole and Alex are capable and, at times, heartless killers. But "Wingwomen" is subtle, in its way, even nuanced, showing a very real connection in the middle of an outrageously un-real circumstance.

Carole and Alex are professional thieves, working for a woman they creepily call "Godmother" (the great Isabelle Adjani ), who rescued them from the streets and put them to work. Alex is a world-class sniper, and Carole is the sneaky thief on the front line. They are enmeshed in each others' lives, bickering about groceries and counseling each other on personal problems. (During the opening sequence, where they dodge aggressive drones before launching themselves off a cliff, Alex chatters about her disappointing love life and tendency to fall for the wrong guys.) But things are changing. Both women want to extricate themselves from the dangerous life. Godmother won't let them go so easily. She would kill them if they double-crossed her. Godmother assigns them one last big job, promising they can "retire" afterward, a promise neither Carole nor Alex trusts.

The last job is very complicated: they must steal architectural plans in one city and get weapons from an arms dealer in another city before heading to Corsica, where they must steal "The Grand Odalisque" (no, not the famous Ingres painting but the pop-art version, by Martial Raysse. Godmother contemptuously calls it "kitsch"). Carole and Alex hire Sam ( Manon Bresch ) straight off the racetrack as their getaway driver. Sam is not a thief or a criminal, so a grumpy Alex puts her through a training montage.

Antoine Roch's cinematography captures the stunning beauty of the Mediterranean coast, with Sam careening on her motorbike through hairpin turns along the Italian coast. Everyone they meet is eccentric in some way, and each has unexpected dimensions. Laurent gave a very interesting interview with Variety  where she talked about the various ways she tried to avoid cliches, particularly in portraying friendship between women. The course correction in action films now is to make women "badasses," which, unfortunately, leaves out flaws or vulnerabilities. Laurent says, "We had this freedom to portray these characters smoking cigarettes and drinking wine when they’re not kicking butts. We wanted 'Wingwomen' to be rock ‘n’ roll. It’s kind of our French touch. In American action movies, you don’t see that. Filmmakers are censoring themselves to have the widest possible audience." She's not wrong.

Laurent is a gifted actress and, in the last decade or so, has shown herself as an accomplished and versatile filmmaker. "Breathe" was an emotional coming-of-age tale centered around an unnervingly intense teenage friendship, and her most recent was the melodramatic and satisfying " The Mad Women's Ball ." Laurent can go small, and she is not afraid to go big. Laurent's eye for detail makes her films feel very alive. She highlights the gifts of her cast: the earthy, funny Exarchopoulos, the vulnerable yet strong Bresch, and, of course, Isabelle Adjani, who looks like she is having a blast playing this imperious, glamorous crime boss.

But notice how Laurent introduces Adjani's character: she is first seen sitting alone in an empty movie theatre, watching Henri Decoin's wonderful 1952 film "La Verite sur Bebe Donge," starring Danielle Darrieux (who died in 2017 at the age of 100) and Jean Gabin . The shot explicitly connects Adjani to those two giants of French cinema, a deliberate and touching tribute to Adjani's career. The shot doesn't move the plot along, but plot isn't everything. Relationships are. "Wingwomen" doesn't really stick the landing, but the journey is a lot of fun. 

On Netflix now.

Sheila O'Malley

Sheila O'Malley received a BFA in Theatre from the University of Rhode Island and a Master's in Acting from the Actors Studio MFA Program. Read her answers to our Movie Love Questionnaire here .

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Film credits.

Wingwomen (2023)

114 minutes

Mélanie Laurent as Carole

Adèle Exarchopoulos as Alex

Isabelle Adjani as Marraine

Manon Bresch as Sam

Philippe Katerine as Abner

Félix Moati as Clarence

• Mélanie Laurent

Writer (comic book)

• Jérôme Mulot
• Florent Ruppert
• Bastien Vies
• Cédric Anger
• Christophe Deslandes

Cinematographer

• Antoine Roch
• Audrey Simonaud

Latest blog posts

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Inside My Head: Kristoffer Borgli on Dream Scenario

Oscar-winning Filmmaker Matthew A. Cherry to Receive the Chicago International Children’s Film Festival’s Inspire Award

Dream Scenario Doesn’t Transcend a Great Premise

Nicolas Cage’s new movie has some fun with the collective unconscious, but it struggles to follow through on its delightful concept.

Few faces have burned deeper into the collective unconscious than Nicolas Cage’s. As an unusual but captivating star of many blockbusters, and the centerpiece of endless internet memes, Cage has persisted in the cultural zeitgeist in some form or another for several decades, even as his status as an A-list actor has fluctuated. He’s the perfect choice to lead Kristoffer Borgli’s Dream Scenario , a movie in which people around the world start to dream about the same person (played by Cage), who floats through some surreal landscape like a piece of mental detritus. After all, who among us hasn’t at one point or another idly pondered Nicolas Cage?

In Dream Scenario , Cage is no megastar. He’s a nebbishy biology professor named Paul Matthews, a balding chump who seems to blend into the background even when he’s at home eating dinner with his wife and kids. Clad in baggy slacks and a half-zip, he’s an alarming but amusing sight when he starts popping up in dreams, strolling by and giving a sheepish wave while otherwise playing no role in the reverie. It’s an incredibly compelling pitch for a movie, a low-key sci-fi scenario with a metatextual twist. But Borgli takes it in a depressingly mundane direction, squeezing a surreal fable into an all-too-contemporary take on the strictures of celebrity.

Given the unusual peaks and valleys of his career, Cage obviously understands the bizarre trappings of fame. That makes him Dream Scenario ’s biggest asset, and he delivers a performance on par with his recent standout work in Pig and The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent . Paul first appears in his daughter’s dream, raking leaves and ignoring her as she’s pelted with mysterious hail. As the story progresses, he learns that other people—old flames, friends of friends, many of his students, even total strangers—are having similar experiences. Pictures of Paul’s face spread online like an old-school viral sensation, a more realistic version of the “This Man” meme that took off on the internet years ago.

Read: Nicolas Cage hasn’t lost his edge

It’s a delicious, fascinating notion, exploring not only the idea of a shared unconscious but also the ways in which the shared consciousness of being online might warp and change it. Paul’s initial guest roles in dreams feel spontaneous, but the more people hear about them, the more he transforms from a nonthreatening background actor into an active participant. At first, Paul hopes to leverage his fame toward publishing a long-gestating science book, but his dream-avatar soon becomes more frightening, scaring or even attacking people as they sleep. In a matter of weeks, Paul goes from a cheerful fad to an international figure of hate, while arguing that he has nothing to do with what goes on in people’s heads.

Cage has a firm grasp on just how cloyingly pathetic Paul can be, portraying his increasingly sweaty desperation as he scrambles to regain his dream persona’s original cutesiness. Paul’s timid wife, Janet (the always-strong Julianne Nicholson), quickly recognizes how ill-equipped he is for any sort of fame, but she’s not above using their marriage to advance professionally. Michael Cera swoops in for a very funny extended cameo as Trent, the head of a marketing firm called Thoughts? who imagines Paul as a subconscious pitchman who invades people’s dreams while holding a Sprite can. Meanwhile, Trent’s assistant, Molly (the wonderfully sardonic Dylan Gelula), confesses that Paul is an irrepressible Lothario in her dreams—something he struggles to match up to in real life.

These are all fitfully funny directions to take the premise in, but Borgli (a Norwegian director whose prior feature Sick of Myself is an acidly funny romp) can’t really pick a mode. Instead, Dream Scenario morphs from a Charlie Kaufman–esque cringe comedy into a simmering nightmare thriller, staging some genuinely unsettling hallucinations but failing to knit them into any larger narrative. Eventually, Paul turns to the sort of dark-web fame that many a “canceled” figure is drawn to, doing a book tour in France and trying to cash in on his own notoriety—a story direction that feels lazy and mundane. Cage is enough to keep Dream Scenario interesting, selling Paul’s mental unraveling with panache; he’s always been a performer who relishes dancing on the border between charismatic and unhinged, swinging between the two in a single line reading. But the movie fails to match that deftness of tone, settling into bland, unimaginative normality—a disappointing turn for such a vibrant concept.

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‘What Happens Later’ Review: Meg Ryan’s Rom-Com Return

The actress stars alongside david duchovny in her own charming film about two old flames who reconnect while stranded at an airport..

Nov. 2, 2023 5:40 pm ET

Meg Ryan and David Duchovny haven’t had a lot of hit movies or TV shows lately—Ms. Ryan hasn’t been seen at all since she appeared in her directorial debut, the indie film “Ithaca,” back in 2016—but it only takes a few minutes of their movie “What Happens Later” to make us remember how much we loved these two ’90s icons in their prime.

Trying to build a serviceable romcom around actors in their early 60s presents a challenge, but the key is understanding that nobody makes it to that age without handling as much baggage as an airport. That’s what makes Ms. Ryan’s second directorial effort a surprising treat, and for good measure, the entire movie is set at an airport, that liminal space between two destinations that stands for both possibility and frustration.

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This might be the best PS5 bundle I've seen yet, and we're still weeks away from Black Friday

I've never seen PS5 bundles including a full priced game this recent for free

I don't see too many PS5 bundles gracing US shelves, and I should know - I'm on the hunt for them every week. However, Black Friday is rapidly approaching and now's the time for savings - I just didn't think we'd be seeing Spider-Man 2 offers so quickly.  Amazon and Best Buy are both offering a free copy of the latest web slinging adventure with their PS5 consoles this week, packing the highest value I've seen in a PS5 bundle to date. 

You can grab both the game and console for just $499.99 right now , with delivery available as soon as tomorrow if you get in quick. Considering this is still a full-priced game, and it's going to be a stretch to see major discounts on it in upcoming Black Friday PS5 deals , that's an incredible offer. Whether you've been holding out on the new Spidey title to pick up a new generation device, or you've stumbled across a particularly lucrative PS5 bundle just as you start your search for holiday discounts, this is a winner. 

PS5 | Marvel Spider-Man 2 | $499.99 at Amazon This is a fantastic amount of value, with Spider-Man 2 still fetching the full $69 MSRP. That's to be expected, this is a blockbuster new release after all. However, I certainly wasn't anticipating PS5 bundles to include the game for free this early on in deals season. 

Buy it if: 

✅ You enjoyed the original title ✅ You want a big open world adventure ✅ You enjoy super hero games

Don't buy it if: 

❌ You'd prefer the upcoming Slim design

Price Check: Best Buy: $499.99

Should you buy the Spider-Man 2 PS5 bundle before Black Friday?

We're at a tricky spot in the year. Black Friday gaming deals are just a couple of weeks away after all, which makes throwing $500 on the table a little daunting. However, we often see retailers - particularly Best Buy - cycling their offers in the lead up to the main event. That means we'll some of these early sales disappear from the shelves, only to return on the big day itself. While there's no guarantees for the end of the month, we wouldn't expect to see much more value on offer from PS5 bundles in 2023. After all, this is the first time we're seeing a full priced game included for free in an offer this close to its release date. Previous Call of Duty, God of War Ragnarok, and Horizon Forbidden West bundles have all stayed at between $529 and $539 for their first few months on the shelves - eventually only dropping to $499 for very brief flash sales. If you've been waiting to dive back into the streets of New York, I'd recommend freefalling onto this one early. 

That said, there are two situations where I'd think twice. The first is if you have no interest in Spider-Man 2. That may seem obvious, but this is the first year we've started to see discounts on the PS5 itself (it dropped to $449 over the summer). While the $50 you could save should the console take a straight price cut at the end of the month is less than the $69.99 price of this game, it's going to be far more valuable for you in particular. We're also anticipating more of these PS5 bundles on different titles further down the line as well. 

Then we get to the PS5 Slim. Obviously, if you prefer the new design we'd recommend holding off here. It might be ever so slightly more expensive (the stand comes separately), but the value here isn't enough to warrant a whole different design. 

More of today's best PS5 deals

If you're after some of the best PS5 accessories to go with your new console, or if you're just curious as to what the rest of the web holds, you'll find plenty more PS5 deals on the shelves right now. We're rounding up all the lowest prices on some of our top picks just below. 

Of course, we're getting you prepped for all this year's Black Friday gaming headset deals and Black Friday gaming monitor deals if you're prepping for a new setup. Or, check out the Black Friday Xbox deals we expect to see, if you're in the opposing camp. 

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Managing Editor of Hardware at GamesRadar+, I originally landed in hardware at our sister site TechRadar before moving over to GamesRadar. In between, I've written for Tom’s Guide, Wireframe, The Indie Game Website and That Video Game Blog, covering everything from the PS5 launch to the Apple Pencil. Now, i'm focused on Nintendo Switch, gaming laptops (and the keyboards and mice that come with them), and tracking everything that suggests VR is about to take over our lives.

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