Umamusume: Pretty Derby – Beginning of a New Era (2024)
Story overview
Umamusume: Pretty Derby - Beginning of a New Era is a 2024 Japanese animated film that blends fantasy, drama, and comedy. It follows Jungle Pocket, a determined horse-girl hybrid (an 'Umamusume'), as she strives to become the greatest racer by competing in the prestigious Classic Triple Crown series. Her journey is challenged by talented rivals from her own generation, testing her perseverance and spirit in a vibrant, sports-themed fantasy world.
Parent Guide
A wholesome, animated sports fantasy with positive themes, suitable for most children. It features no concerning content, focusing on competition, friendship, and personal growth in a lighthearted, imaginative setting.
Content breakdown
No violence or physical harm. Includes animated racing scenes with characters pushing themselves competitively, which might involve mild peril-like moments (e.g., stumbling or intense effort), but all depicted safely and without injury.
Nothing scary or disturbing. The tone is upbeat and inspirational, with no frightening imagery, dark themes, or suspenseful elements beyond typical sports drama tension.
No offensive or strong language expected. Dialogue is family-friendly, likely including encouraging or competitive phrases typical of sports anime.
No sexual content or nudity. Characters are stylized anime girls with modest, athletic outfits appropriate for racing.
No depiction of substance use, alcohol, or smoking.
Moderate emotional moments related to competition, such as determination, disappointment, or triumph, but handled in a positive, uplifting way. Suitable for sensitive viewers, with no intense sadness or anxiety.
Parent tips
This film is a family-friendly animated sports drama with fantasy elements. It focuses on themes like determination, teamwork, rivalry, and pursuing dreams. The 'Umamusume' characters are human-like girls with horse ears and tails, depicted in a cute, stylized anime aesthetic. There is no real-world peril, violence, or mature content, but the competitive racing scenes involve mild intensity. Suitable for children who enjoy upbeat, character-driven stories with positive messages.
Parent chat guide
Parent follow-up questions
- Which Umamusume character did you like the most, and why?
- What was your favorite part of the horse races?
- How did the characters show they were good friends?
- Why do you think Jungle Pocket wanted to win the Triple Crown so badly?
- How did the rivals make the story more interesting?
- What does it mean to be a good sport, like in the movie?
- How did Jungle Pocket's challenges compare to real-life sports competitions?
- What role did teamwork play, even in an individual sport like racing?
- Can you think of a time you had to work hard like Jungle Pocket?
- What does the film say about talent vs. perseverance in achieving goals?
- How does the fantasy setting (Umamusume) enhance or simplify the sports drama themes?
- Discuss the portrayal of rivalry—is it healthy or overly competitive in this story?
Where to watch
Streaming availability has not been announced yet.
Trailer
Trailer playback is unavailable in your region.
