My Little Pony: A New Generation

Certificate: PG

Voices of: Vanessa Hudgens, Kimiko Glenn, Sofia Carson, James Marsden

Release date: 2021

3 out of 5

3

Those pretty ponies beloved by the under-8s get a computer-animated reboot in this colourful and fun adventure.

It seems that all is not well in the pony world of Equestria. The Earth Ponies, Unicorns and Pegasi are no longer friends, they have lost all their magic and live in separate lands, deeply mistrustful of each other. However, when Earth Pony Sunny (Hudgens) meets Unicorn Izzy (Glenn), the pair put their differences aside, team up and travel to the land of the Pegasi to discover where the magic has gone and how they can bring it, and pony unity, back to their world.

Nicely animated – with a cute old-style animated prelude for long-time My Little Pony fans – this carries a good message for kids about getting along, empowerment, not believing in stereotypes, and trusting your heart, that is worthwhile and delivered in a light-hearted, sweet way.

The plot zips along, peppered with some poppy songs, and the animation is lovely, especially in the detail for each of the species’ lands – the cosy village of Maretime Bay (home of the Earth Ponies), the fairytale forests of the Unicorns’ Bridlewood and the lavish Disney-esque palaces of the Pegasi.

Parents may be slightly concerned that the movie’s ‘baddies’ (who really aren’t that bad, but still…) aren’t punished, but little kids will no doubt be too busy being swept up in Equestria’s sparkly pastel magic to notice.

Is My Little Pony: A New Generation suitable for kids? Here are our parents’ notes...

The movie is rated PG in the UK – this is mainly due to scenes of minor peril for some of the characters. Please note very young or sensitive viewers may be worried about the main characters in some situations, but overall the film is suitable for all ages.

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