The Wild Thornberrys Movie
"You don't need extraordinary powers to do extraordinary things."
Eliza Thornberry, a girl who talks to animals, and her sister Debbie find their sisterly bond strained when a dangerous situation pulls their family into a fast paced confrontation with the unknown. On screen the Thornberries leave their familiar comforts and push into unfamiliar terrain that... Read more
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Streaming availability last verified: January 30, 2026
About The Wild Thornberrys Movie
Eliza Thornberry, a girl who talks to animals, and her sister Debbie find their sisterly bond strained when a dangerous situation pulls their family into a fast paced confrontation with the unknown. On screen the Thornberries leave their familiar comforts and push into unfamiliar terrain that tests their humor and courage. Eliza must reckon with the limits of her extraordinary gift as she and her family face a series of risky encounters, strange creatures and tough choices. Throughout it all the sisters and the clan stay close, holding each other up as they strive to protect Debbie and stay true to their values. In the end the courage to protect what matters most shines through. Stories of courage feel timeless.
Directed by Cathy Malkasian and Jeff McGrath, The Wild Thornberrys Movie arrived in 2002 as a big screen extension of the TV series. The voice cast includes Lacey Chabert, Tim Curry and Tom Kane, with Kate Boutilier shaping the story.
Box office performance was modest for a family animated feature of its era, with worldwide gross that did not dwarf bigger releases. The film found its audience primarily among fans of the TV series and families, for mainstream audiences worldwide.
As a mid early 2000s animated feature, it helped bring the Thornberrys world to a wider audience and reinforced messages about wildlife, habitat and curiosity. The film showcases the franchise's humor and heart while highlighting global cultures and environmental awareness for families and young fans alike across continents and oceans.
Critics noted that the movie preserves the TV series energy while offering family friendly action and emotional beats. Themes center on sisterhood, responsibility, and a respectful curiosity about nature and different cultures, all presented with humor and accessible action for younger audiences everywhere today and beyond across generations and friends.
Details
- Release Date
- December 20, 2002
- Runtime
- 1h 25m
- Rating
- PG
- User Ratings
- 274 votes
- Type
- Movie
- Genres
- Family, Comedy, Adventure, Animation
- Country
- United States
- Studio
- Paramount Pictures +2 more
- Budget
- $35,000,000
- External Links
- View on IMDB
Official Trailer
Cast
Lacey Chabert
Eliza Thornberry (voice)
Tom Kane
Darwin (voice)
Cree Summer
Phaedra (voice)
Tim Curry
Nigel Thornberry (voice)
Lynn Redgrave
Cordelia Thornberry (voice)
Danielle Harris
Debbie Thornberry (voice)
Flea
Donnie Thornberry (voice)
Crystal Scales
Cheetah Cubs (voice)
Kimberly Brooks
Tally (Cheetah Cub) (voice)
Alfre Woodard
Akela (Cheetah Mother) (voice)
Director: Jeff McGrath, Cathy Malkasian
Written by: Kate Boutilier