Merlin the Magical Puppy

YMA recommendation

Approved as non-violent media, with caution. Slapstick comedy; Risk of imitative behaviour

Most suitable age range:

2-4

Availability

At time of review, screening on video.

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About the program

Year of production	2001
Classification advice
Rating	G
Consumer advice lines	None
Duration	10 minutes

Other information
Country of origin	UK
Production Company	Red Collar Productions & Little Entertainment

Synopsis

Merlin is a playful, mischievous puppy who inherits a magical collar once belonging to the dog of Merlin the Magician. With the words “I wish” Merlin appears in a fantasy world where he can be anyone he wants to be and where anything can happen.

Points to consider

Words of caution

During one of Merlin’s “I wish” adventures Oscar the cat instigates a mutiny and ties up two men (the only thing shown is two men tied to a pole.) He tries to make Merlin walk the plank.
Oscar the cat and Merlin have a rowdy disagreement in Merlin's kennel. We hear a scuffle and see Merlin emerge looking rather dishevelled but unharmed.

Positive aspects

sows the importance of creative thinking and using imagination in play
teaches contentment by allowing a chance to see if what you think you want is really what you think it will be like
demonstrates determination and persistence.

Questions to ask

If Oscar the cat is a troublemaker, how could Merlin handle himself when Oscar is around?
Is there any way that Oscar and Merlin could be friends? What would need to happen?