Why young kids should watch Prince of Egypt

There is something about The Prince of Egypt that transcends the typical animated film. Beneath its sweeping visuals and dramatic storytelling lies a profound exploration of identity, freedom, and the pursuit of justice. Released in 1998, DreamWorks' take on the biblical story of Moses, though centered on a tale of faith and divine intervention, offers rich themes that resonate deeply with young audiences. For all the grandeur of its animation and musical numbers, The Prince of Egypt provides more than just an entertaining spectacle for children; it offers a rare and impactful lesson about the power of courage, the importance of empathy, and the unshakable desire to do what is right.

At the heart of the film is the story of Moses, a character whose journey of self-discovery is as relevant to young viewers today as it was to ancient civilizations. Raised as an Egyptian prince, Moses’ identity is shaped by privilege, comfort, and a strong sense of belonging to the royal family. However, the revelation of his true heritage—as a Hebrew born into slavery—forces him to confront uncomfortable truths about his place in the world. For young kids, this theme of identity is an invaluable lesson, teaching them the importance of understanding who they are, where they come from, and how they are connected to those around them. The movie shows that our identities are complex and multi-faceted, shaped not just by the world we are born into, but by the choices we make as we learn about ourselves.

Moses’ journey of self-discovery also introduces young viewers to the concept of purpose. The Prince of Egypt is not just a story of a man discovering his roots, but also a story of a person grappling with what it means to be a leader. It asks the question: What does it take to lead with integrity and justice? Young children, who are often just beginning to understand the role of authority figures in their own lives, may come to recognize that leadership isn’t about power or dominance—it’s about responsibility and sacrifice. Moses doesn’t seek out leadership; it finds him. He is reluctant, unsure, and at times even afraid. Yet, it is his sense of duty toward his people that ultimately drives him to action. The film teaches children that doing what is right often requires personal sacrifice, and it is through these sacrifices that true leadership emerges.

And then there is the theme of freedom—one of the most powerful lessons in The Prince of Egypt. The central conflict of the film revolves around Moses’ mission to free the Hebrew slaves from the tyranny of Pharaoh Ramses. This pursuit of liberation is not just a political act, but a deeply personal one. Moses, a man who once lived a life of privilege, now understands the suffering of his people and becomes their voice for change. For young kids, this concept of freedom is deeply significant, especially as they begin to understand the idea of justice and fairness in their own lives. Whether it’s standing up to a bully, questioning an unfair rule at school, or learning to speak out for what they believe in, The Prince of Egypt offers a compelling model of courage and integrity in the face of oppression.

The film’s depiction of empathy is equally important. Throughout the story, Moses struggles with his relationship with his adoptive brother Ramses, the Pharaoh, whose path is in direct conflict with Moses’. Their bond, once forged in childhood, becomes increasingly strained as they are pulled in different directions by fate and their own personal convictions. In this dynamic, The Prince of Egypt illustrates that even the closest relationships are tested by power, responsibility, and ideology. However, the film also shows that empathy—the ability to understand and care for the other—remains a vital thread that holds humanity together. Moses’ compassion for his people and for his brother, despite their opposing paths, ultimately drives the narrative. For kids, this is an essential lesson in emotional intelligence: the ability to see beyond one’s own perspective and recognize the struggles of others, even when those others are difficult to understand.

What sets The Prince of Egypt apart from many other animated films is its ability to tackle grand, even solemn themes with the kind of subtlety that invites reflection without overwhelming young minds. The film doesn’t shy away from the pain of oppression or the cost of standing up for what is right. In fact, it shows the weight of these decisions through the struggle that Moses faces—his doubts, his failures, and his moments of deep despair. But it also shows how resilience, faith, and love can lead to redemption. In a world where children are often shielded from the harsher realities of life, The Prince of Egypt introduces them to the idea that life is not always easy, and that sometimes it takes more than good intentions to change the world. It takes perseverance, a sense of justice, and the courage to act, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

The film’s musical score, punctuated by the hauntingly beautiful “When You Believe,” also drives home its themes of hope and perseverance. The song’s message—that even in the darkest moments, belief and faith can light the way—is one that resonates deeply with children, teaching them that hope is not just an abstract concept, but a tool for overcoming the challenges they face in their own lives. The film’s music reinforces the idea that, even when things seem impossible, there is always room for belief in a better future.

At its heart, The Prince of Egypt is a tale about standing up for what is right, even when it requires great personal cost. It’s about discovering your purpose, understanding who you are, and leading with compassion and courage. It’s a film that invites young viewers to reflect on the world around them, to understand the importance of justice, freedom, and empathy, and to see how they, too, can play a part in making the world a better place. For all its grandeur and sweeping moments, it is these quiet lessons that make The Prince of Egypt a timeless film for children—a story of hope, humanity, and the unyielding power of belief.