i think this is a fairly entertaining family movie.it's harmless fluff,really,and it can be a bit slow.but the characters are all likable,and it's suitable for kids of any age,except maybe really young kids.it might be a bit intense for them.and kids over 12 might find it boring.adults might not find it that entertaining.of course,it depends on your tastes.still,it's nice to watch a movie without any sex or violence once in awhile.with all the negative things kids are exposed to nowadays,this movie would probably be a welcome change of pace.just don't expect a lot of realism.and the story is pretty thin.but for safe,harmless viewing,you can't go really go too wrong with this movie.for me,Gentle Ben (2002) is a 6/10