Is Gremlins appropriate for children?

# Gremlins Parental Guide *Gremlins* is a fun but mischievous mix of comedy and scares about a boy whose cute pet spawns destructive creatures when rules are broken. While rated PG, it contains moderate violence and genuinely frightening moments that may unsettle younger children. Best suited for ages 10+.

What age is Gremlins suitable for?

Our verdict for Gremlins is: Use caution. See the age grid on this page for specific recommendations by age group.

Is Gremlins safe for children? | ScreenWise Parent Guide

Content breakdown

🔫

Violence

Moderate

🗣️

Language / Profanity

None

🔞

Sexual Content

None

👻

Horror / Scary

Moderate

About this movie

Type

Movie

Released

1984

Rating

Genre

Fantasy, Horror, Comedy

Synopsis

After receiving an exotic small animal as a Christmas gift, a young man inadvertently breaks three important rules concerning his new pet, which unleashes a horde of malevolently mischievous creatures on a small town.

Cast

Zach Galligan

Billy Peltzer

Phoebe Cates

Kate Beringer

Hoyt Axton

Randall Peltzer

Frances Lee McCain

Lynn Peltzer

Full cast on IMDb ›

Age suitability

Under 6

Not yet

Ages 6–8

Not recommended

Ages 9–12

With parent

Ages 13+

Yes

Where to watch

🎬 Find on Amazon

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Parents also checked

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone

Generally safe

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

Not recommended

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

Not recommended

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Generally safe

Ratings based on MPAA/TV classification and TMDB metadata. Updated March 2026.
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