Story
The movie begins with Fireman Sam rescuing Charlie, who falls over the lighthouse rail. Visiting Chief Fire Officer Boyce awards Sam a special bravery medal and offers him a new job in Newtown.
Meanwhile, the Pontypandy Pioneer Scouts go on a camping trip in the forest. Fireman Sam tells them that no fires should be lit in the forest, but Norman and Derek light a fire to cook sausages. They fail to put it out properly, and the fire spreads, endangering the lives of the Pontypandy residents on the camping trip.
Fireman Elvis and Radar the dog lead the Pontypandy residents to safety on the wharf at the edge of town. Luckily, a storm blows in and the rain puts out the forest fire, saving Pontypandy.
Themes
The threat of fire; accidents and rescues
Violence
None of concern
Content that may disturb children
Under 5
This movie contains some scenes that could scare or disturb children under five. For example:
- Charlie falls over the lighthouse rails and is left hanging by one hand far above the ground.
- Mike falls off the roof of a house into the harbour, and struggles to stay afloat.
- Helen gets caught in Trevor’s man-trap and is hanging upside down in a tree, unable to get down.
- Fireman Sam almost gets hit by some burning branches that fall off a tree.
From 5-8
Younger children in this age group might also be scared by some of the scenes mentioned above.
Over 8
Children in this age group are unlikely to be scared by anything in this movie.
Sexual references
None of concern
Alcohol, drugs and other substances
None of concern
Nudity and sexual activity
None of concern
Product placement
None of concern
Coarse language
None of concern
Ideas to discuss with your children
Fireman Sam: The Great Fire of Pontypandy is an animated adventure in which bravery and honour are rewarded, and doing the wrong thing results in punishment. The movie is aimed at younger children, but some children under six might be scared by the idea of a community threatened by fire and scenes of accidental harm.
The main messages from this movie are about helping people in need and pulling together as a community. The movie also looks at the bad things that happen when you do the wrong thing.
Values in this movie that you could reinforce with your children include selflessness, and care and concern for others.
This movie could also give you the chance to talk with your children about real-life issues such as stealing, lighting fires, and ignoring safety instructions.