The Polar Express

NZ release: 09 December 2004

Suitable for General Audiences Rated on: 09 December 2004

Polar Express

What’s it about?

On Christmas Eve, a young boy embarks on a magical adventure to the North Pole on the Polar Express.

The facts

  • Directed by Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump, Back to the Future Trilogy)
  • English language
  • Runtime: 99 minutes
  • Starring Tom Hanks
  • Based on Chris Van Allsburg’s 1985 book of the same name, The Polar Express

Why did it get this rating?

This film was cross-rated by the Film and Video Labelling Body. You can find out more about cross-rating here.

Horror

There is a short scene where a character walks through a room filled with puppets. One of them lunges towards the character terrifying them before they run off.

Dangerous imitable behaviour

The characters often find themselves in dangerous situations. For example, they often walk on top of the fast-moving train carriages.

Further information

Recent featured decisions

21 August 2025

Violence

While working on a humanitarian placement in French Guiana, UK Prime Minister Abigail Dalton’s husband, Dr. Alex Anderson, is kidnapped. At the same time, French President Vivienne Toussaint is blackmailed, forcing the two leaders, despite their rivalry, into a dangerous political showdown where every choice comes with devastating consequences.

Read more

20 August 2025

Sexual themes, drug references, offensive language, adult themes

On her trip to Europe, Heather’s journey takes an unexpected turn when she meets Jack – and a surprising romance begins.

Read more