Information for Parents
Common Sense Media says OK for kids 13+
Memorable, sometimes gritty drama about music, friendship.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this stirring drama about friendship and the beauty of music depicts mental illness in a realistic light, neither overdramatizing nor underemphasizing it. Scenes that take place in L.A.'s gritty areas include some skirmishes and shots of drug use, and a dead body is found. The authentic feel of those scenes (which feature real-life Skid Row regulars) could be upsetting for sensitive viewers. But aside from that and some harsh language (including sparing use of "f--k"), the movie is age appropriate for teens -- there's no sex or blatant product placement.
- Families can talk about what the film is trying to say. Why do you think the filmmaker lingered on the gritty Skid Row scenes? Is it to shock or to educate? Were you aware of the massive homeless problem L.A. faces?
- How is this movie different from many other films set in L.A.?
- Families
can also discuss Steve and Nathaniel’s relationship. At what point do
they become friends, and why?
- The movie is based on a true story -- how
accurate do you think it is? Why might filmmakers decide to change some
details in making a movie?
The good stuff
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Positive messages: The movie has an inspiring message about friendship -- two men from very different walks of life become very close friends despite mental illness, professional pressures, and difficulties beyond the realm of daily life. The movie depicts mental illness in a realistic light and goesn't shy away from L.A.'s grittier side.
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Positive role models: The main characters are certainly flawed, but they value each other and their friendship. Steve goes out of his way to help Nathaniel.
What to watch for
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Violence: A character suffering from schizoprenia lashes out at a friend, beats him up, and threatens his life. The same character also bullies his sister. Skid Row denizens get in skirmishes; a woman's dead body is found, and there's blood caked on the spot.
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Sex: Some moments of tenderness -- and tension, too -- between a former couple, but no kissing or any other physical activity.
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Language: Swearing includes "s--t," "damn," "hell," "goddamn," "son of a bitch," and very limited use of "f--k."
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Consumerism: Not an issue
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: A man (not a main character) smokes a crack pipe in public. Some discussions about addiction. Characters are shown drinking.