What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this movie -- which kids will want to see thanks to stars Dane Cook and Jessica Simpson -- is predictably rife with potty humor, foul-mouthed characters, sexual innuendo, and not-so-subtle racism and sexism -- which means kids will think it's a hoot. An African-American character is a dim-witted, gentle giant, while an Asian character willingly does favors for sweet treats. And let's not forget Hispanic nimrod Jorge with his vapid stare -- apparently Efren Ramirez (Pedro in Napoleon Dynamite) isn't too concerned about being typecast. In one scene, Jorge pulls a knife, and Vince says to him, "I thought you were Mexican, not Puerto Rican!" What century is this, again?
- Families can talk about why such stupid stuff is so funny to kids. Make sure they get the fact that a lot of the movie relies on stereotypical behaviors and characters for its humor, and ask them to talk about how they recognize the difference between real life and comedic cliches. You can also use the movie to discuss acceptable ways to win someone's affections. What would have been a better way to impress the new girl? Is it ever OK to use questionable behavior to get ahead? And shouldn't Zack have tried harder at work because it's the right thing to do, rather than just to impress Amy?