Parents' Guide to

Jingle All the Way

By Emily Ashby, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 3+

Heartwarming holiday tale has strong marketing tie-ins.

Movie NR 2011 22 minutes
Jingle All the Way Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

Community Reviews

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age 3+

Based on 3 parent reviews

ViannaR
ViannaR Adult
January 25, 2015
age 3+

I'll say it again...Utter Sweetness!

I wrote a review of the other "Jingle" film, and this one is nearly as perfect. (One scene felt manipulative--like, let's give the kiddies a gratuitous scare/jolt--very annoying and dumb; the scary person winds up being sweet after all, but in a confusing way--the only bad choice in this otherwise fun and lovely film.)
Jessica H.
Jessica H. Parent of 3-year-old
December 18, 2022
age 3+

A Sweet Short Holiday Movie

What a sweet movie for little ones. Just long enough!
See all 3 parent reviews

What's the Story?

JINGLE ALL THE WAY follows the escapades of an adorable husky puppy whose chance encounter with a young boy named Andrew (voiced by Ryan Bley) leads to an instant emotional connection. Despite Andrew's persistence, his mom (Morgan Cox) insists that the time isn't right to add a dog to the family, so Andrew and Jingle (Thomas Stroppel) must part ways. The spunky little pup just won't give up and sets out on a snowy adventure to find his favorite boy, guided by a friendly cardinal (Brian Finnerty) and a series of ringing bells that help lead the way, but in the end, it takes a Christmas miracle and the help of a jolly visitor in red to reunite these two friends.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (3 ):
Kids say (2 ):

This is a gentle, heartwarming tale that celebrates the power of love, the ability to succeed against all odds, and the bonds between pets and their people. There are commercial ties, though: If you think this sweet little pup looks familiar, you're right. He's a recognizable face at Hallmark stores, gracing everything from greeting cards to Christmas ornaments, and he stars in his very own storybook, which inspired this TV special. There's no direct marketing within the movie itself, so kids won't make the connection just from tuning in, but they may be drawn to Jingle products if you find yourself amid them at the store.

Much of the story is told from Jingle's perspective, with the help of a narrator (Chad Darrow), since the animals don't talk, and it's a real treat to tag along with the playful pup on his snowy journey to a forever home. The simple, slow-paced story is a perfect escape for families from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about taking care of pets. What pets do you have? What are your responsibilities toward them? What might happen if you don't care for them the way you should? What is special about your relationship with your pets?

  • Kids: What does "advertising" mean? Have you ever seen a product advertised in a show or movie? Does seeing something on TV make you more inclined to want it? Why or why not?

  • Kids: What are some of your favorite gifts from Christmases past? How does it feel to receive a very special gift? What is on your wish list this year? Do you have plans for special gifts for other people? Is it true that giving is better than receiving?

Movie Details

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