Armageddon Review

Messages: Since the asteroid hurtling toward Earth is just a random act, the movie doesn't really have an overt message, but a smaller one is the sheer self-preservation instinct that humans have. A number of people combine forces to save the lives of everyone else on the planet; it's a good example of teamwork and problem-solving.

Role models: The movie likes to play with the idea of the scruffy, outcasts becoming the movie's heroes, so it's arguable whether any of them make good role models. For example, Harry Stamper (Bruce Willis) is cantankerous, quick to anger, and overprotective of his daughter, but underneath, he's a genuinely good man who sacrifices everything to save the ones he loves.

Violence: Contains heavy fantasy violence, with giant asteroids crashing into earth, and massive destruction. Several characters -- both major and minor -- die onscreen. One character tries to shoot another with a gun, and the scene is played for laughs. There is also plenty of verbal sparring and arguing.

Sex: A.J. and Grace are seen in bed together, twice, with plenty of flirting and kissing, although the movie makes it clear that they are in love and are planning to marry. One character goes to a strip club, though no nudity is seen. Michael Clarke Duncan's bare behind can be glimpsed in one shot.

Language: We hear at least two uses of "s--t," plus "ass," "damn," "hell," "horny," "Jesus" and "God."

Consumerism: The movie Star Wars is mentioned at least once.

Drinking, drugs and smoking: Characters sit in bars, though no one actually appears to drink onscreen. There is also some discussion of the various drugs that characters have tried in the past (including horse tranquilizers).