Over the Moon Review and Discussion Questions

Over the moon Review written by the Elf and the Ent on 10/27/2020 This post contains affiliate links, you can find out more on our policies page or in the disclaimer at the bottom of the blog. 

Know Before You Watch

Movie: Over the Moon
Rating: PG
Genre: Fantasy Drama
Age suggested : 8 and up
Release Date: October 23rd, 2020
Streaming Service: Netflix
Themes: Tradition, Myths, Grief, Moving on
Warnings: The whole story centers on the tragic loss of a parent and loved on, it also discusses blending families, and you might have a question or two from a little one about what happens after you die.

Quick Summary:

Fei fei loves the tradition that has been passed down to her. But when her father seems to stop believing in a key part of the tradition, Fei Fei goes on a journey to prove him wrong. Maybe building a rocket will give her answers. Of course, what she finds ends up being much more than she ever could have expected about the goddess Chang’e and her own very deep loss.

While it dives pretty deeply into very unique fantasy (like the goddess being a sensational space pop star), it’s also a really sweet movie with a lot of depth and a great message- it’s good to grieve but it’s also good to keep living.

Over the Moon Review

–Why Watch It-

Over the Moon provides a fun introduction into Chinese mythology. Specifically, the world of Chang’e (The goddess of the moon) and Houyi (a mythical archer). This is surrounded by Fei Fei’s story in which she must learn how to deal with grief and moving on. Plus, if you’re a Hamilton fan- Phillapa Soo (Eliza!) sings and voices a character.

But what about the gods and goddesses. Why would I want to introduce my kids to that?:
Mythology is a way to introduce kids to different cultures, first of all. If you would not hesitate to teach them about Greek mythology but hesitate with Chinese mythology- there’s a racial bias there that needs examining. Mythology is most important to me for the same reason that fairy tales, parables, and fables are important. They teach big lessons in a way that our brains are wired to understand. They teach about good, evil, morality, and about compassion. (If you’re still unsure on this point, google ‘why teach kids mythology’ for more.

You can also check out the novelization as well as the below products:

-Is it Appropriate?- 

There are some slightly intense scenes, but overall there really isn’t much violence. There is no language. The main difficult topic relates to the death of Fei Fei’s mother. And learning to get along with a younger step sibling. Overall, if that won’t be too upsetting to your child, this movie is really great.

-Story-

Over the Moon is very much a movie of two halves. The first half is very grounded in reality with discussions of mythology. About halfway through the movie, there is a significant jump in plot in which we ‘rocket’ into a very unique fantasy world. Although the overarching plot plays a big role in the fantasy world, it is a bit jarring at times.

One problem with this movie seems to be it’s pacing. Although the plot makes sense throughout, some aspects feel as if they are dwelt on a bit too long while other parts seem to brush past too quickly.

-Characters-

Fei Fei is the main character of the film and you are immediately attached to her on a personal level due to the opening story. Her motives and desires, although not always a good decision, are always understandable. Her development from grieving daughter to the girl who rescues a goddess from her depression is simply beautiful.

Gobi (Voiced by Ken Jeong) is a fantastic addition to the film as he adds wonderful comic relief to the film. The unique thing about him is he is funny, but also has the ability to be serious and sit alongside Fei Fei in her grief. It makes for a very lovely duo.

Over the Moon Discussion Questions:

1. Does your family have a food that has been passed down through tradition? What food would you want your kids to eat/cook?
   (PS- here’s a recipe for mooncakes if you want to try it!)
2. Which song did you enjoy the most? What did you like about it?
3. Have you had any experience with Chinese mythology (such as Chang’e or Houyi) before? If not, what did you think of them?
4. What is the main lesson that Fei Fei had to learn from her story?

If you enjoyed our Over the Moon Review, please share and check out some of our other posts:

-Family Friendly Streaming Suggestions for Netflix

–Coco Review: Dia de Muertes comes to life in this beautiful film

–Abominable Review: Yi is struggling to connect with people when suddenly a yeti appears on her roof

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