OK for kids 13+
Poignant Efron drama too intense for younger fans.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this affecting drama starring High School Musical heartthrob Zac Efron tackles themes that may be too heavy for his legions of tween fans. His character is tortured with survivor's guilt over the death of his younger brother, which happens in a terrible car accident (some blood is shown). While there are other intense scenes of despair and sadness, there’s also hope and a strong message about leaving tragedy behind in favor of joy. Expect some swearing (including "s--t"), the suggestion of underage drinking (though none is shown), and some kissing and discussion of "getting laid."
- Families can talk about what audience the movie is intended to appeal to. Is it meant for Efron's younger fans? Do stars who are popular with younger kids have an obligation to make media that's appropriate for them?
- What role does alcohol play in the movie's central tragedy? What are the real-life consequences of drinking?
- Why is Charlie consumed by guilt? Can you keep the memory of a deceasedloved one alive without getting lost in death? How does the movie handle this topic?
- Do you believe in second chances? Why?
The good stuff
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Messages: The movie seems to be telling audiences not to live in the past -- and that the best way out of tragedy is to take one step at a time toward joy, no matter how hard that may seem. It also says that putting off a dream doesn't mean losing it completely.
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Role models: Charlie is an amazing brother -- but he's so dedicated and loyal that his own needs go by the wayside. He doesn’t know how to manage his grief and instead drowns in it. Charlie and Sam's parents are mostly out of the picture, either for sad reasons (abandonment) or out of necessity (work).
What to watch for
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Violence: A child dies in a terrible car accident; viewers don’t see much gore, but they do see blood, cuts, and bruises. Guys talk trash after a sporting event and at a bar; one of them gets punched in the mouth.
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Sex: Talk about “getting laid.” A couple kisses passionately and spends the night together; he's seen with his shoulders bare. Charlie is seen shirtless.
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Language: An 11-year-old says “ass” and “d--k.” “S--t” is also used a couple of times; other words include "hell," "damn," and "crap."
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Consumerism: A few labels are flashed, including Kaenon (maker of sunglasses) and Tanqueray.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: A terrible car accident is caused by a drunk driver. Teens talk about partying. A young man drowns his sorrows with hard liquor. Friends down Jaeger bombs at a bar.
Fan Reviews provided by
5
Incredible by skylarxolove
I'll try to write this as best as I can without spoiling anything, because, one of the many incredible things about this movie, is the element of suprise.
Charlie St. Cloud, as most of you know, is the story of a young man who loses his younger brother in a car accident.The story is about a bond between brothers, however, it's not that simple.There is a lot of suspense -and of course, drama- in this movie.If you are looking for a movie with a happy ending, although this seems like a sad movie, Charlie St. Cloud is definitly the best movie you could look for.It is an inspiring story and you can't help but fall in love with the bond between Charlie and Sam.However, the whole story doesn't revolve around Charlie's relationship with Sam, it begins to turn into a romance and focus on his relationship with Tess.She really helps him live again and whether he realizes it or not- to move on. The movie has everything from comedy to love. Overall, the movie is one of the best I've seen.
5
Charlie St. Cloud by t_burnsed
I LOVED the movie, Charlie St. Cloud. The fact that Charlie could "see dead people" kept us guessing WHO was alive and who was dead, all the way through! Zac Efron, of course, did an AWESOME acting job. He's a winner every time! I think teens, young adults, and adults of all ages will enjoy the film. It has such a sweet story line and keeps you rooting for the characters!
5
A different side of Zac Efron by pirates_babe06
I will start out by stating that I am a huge fan of Efron so I had a slightly biased opinion about the movie even before I saw it.
The movie and story truly exceeded my expectations. I did not read the book so I am unable to compare, but the story takes an unexpected turn causing the audience to question the previous events.
I would highly recommend this movie to fans of Zac Efron, however, I would heed the PG-13 rating; it may not be suitable for most children. I also would recommend this movie for those who do not respect Efron as an actor; the character is different from his previous roles. Overall, this movie will not please everyone, but it will entertain a wide variety of movie-goers.
5
Beautiful movie with a twist by bellaoreo
Zac Efron does an excellent job in this movie. Totally did not expect, from the previews,what the story was about. I liked that they did not give it all away in the trailers. I do have to say that he is a beautiful young man!! Highly recommend this movie. I loved it!
5
Charlie St. Cloud by TabVicHai
My daughters and I enjoyed the movie. The acting was very realistic. This is a family oriented movie and would be suitable for all age groups.
4
Charlie St. Cloud by krossman7
For the most part I enjoyed the movie. It was tear jerking and intuitive movie. The acting was very good with unexpected twists. The plot was interesting yet odd. teenage girls will love zac efron in this role.
5
Charlie St. Cloud by regine0413
Great Movie....A Must See
4
Looking for a good date movie? by ifcisbest78
Now that I have someone to see date movies with I admit some stand out and like with any movie from any genre some are cliche and are best used as background noise. Charlie St. Cloud (for the most part) stands out. This movie deals with life, death, the afterlife, and what happens when all three of these worlds collide. There was some "just like all the rest" moments but the twists and turns balance the scales. Tears will be shed even (like with me) if you're new to feeling emotions and watching movies with more than sex, crude jokes, and violence.
5
Charlie St. Cloud by alyssasmithhh
I thought this movie was excellent. I read the book before hand and thought the movie wouldn't compare, but for once, I couldn't decide which one I liked better. And zac efron is beautiful which was a plus.
5
Charlie St. Cloud a must see! by pastmarie
Zac Efron proves he is much more than a "flash in the pan" with this incredible performance. The story was touching, heart-warming and romantic. I loved the sailing! Beautiful!