Iffy for 14+
Uneven Braff comedy OK, but lacks excitement.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this is a crass comedy aimed at 13-year-olds who like jokes at others' expense. A character in a wheelchair is ridiculed, a cartoon character is a racial stereotype, and there's lots of innuendo about a character's large genitals. There's a generous helping of "f--k"s and "s--t"s, along with scenes in which a husband and wife negotiate when and how to be intimate beyond basic canoodling, two men talk about what makes a wife willing to have sex with her husband, co-workers gossip how a physically disabled man pleases a woman, and more. Plus, an elementary-school-age kid gives Tom the finger and swears, and the two main male characters do lots of fighting and trash talking.
- Families can talk about how the media sets up expectations about parenting roles. Do movies and TV shows gloss over the difficulties of parenting, or are they portrayed with clichés? Also, how is Chip's physical handicap handled in the movie? Do people have preconceived notions about those who are impaired? What are they, and how can they be dispelled? How is Braff's character in this movie different from many of the more-vulnerable characters he's played in the past? What do you think made him branch out?
The good stuff
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Messages: Tom is a maverick who says it like it is, even when he's shoving his foot down his mouth and offending others. He also taunts and stalks a kid (who gives him the finger) and lies about an incident at work. Chip is a sociopath bent on destroying Tom at any cost, even if it requires lies, deceit, and outright violence.
What to watch for
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Violence: Fairly brutal fistfights between Tom and Chip, plus a basketball game among men in wheelchairs that's pretty intense. One character pushes another down a flight of stairs.
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Sex: Tom and Sofia come on to each other, with varying degrees of success. Kissing, groping, and much innuendo about one character's generously sized genitals. Some graphic description of sex acts and unusual positions. Allusions to past conquests and tips from a married man on how to get more action. Pornographic material shows up on a laptop. A man sits naked in a chair with a towel across his lap.
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Language: "F--k," "s--t" (used by both adults and a child), "dips--t," "slut." The words aren't used frequently, but pointedly.
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Consumerism: Tom works at an ad agency, so some products are labeled (though for the most part, they're made up).
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Some drinking during toasts and similar events -- and, once, after a character loses his job, he drinks scotch during the day.
Fan Reviews provided by
4
Funny... by Ashley82303
Well, I have to say I liked the movie.. It was a good mix of funny/serious. Sometimes you feel that a certain character is a little "over the top" but other than that, it's hilarious. I love ZB, he's a great actor.
5
the ex by jigga5599
funnest movie ive seen in awhile.laughed the whole way through.definately a must see
3
the ex by mcbrett
on the stupid side but good cast
4
The Ex by grgarms
The Ex was a solid, pleasant movie. A nice break from the big action movies, and overblown comedies thrown at moivegoers from one end, and the esoteric art house films offered from the other. It managed to deliver a clever, funny story with good moments from each end of the spectrum. Tom is the same slightly complex, endearing renegade that now seems to be Mr. Braff's one character. While a fan, I'm already looking for more range from him. Once again Amanda Peet's potential to be a great dramatic actor shines through her looks and the flat, supporting roles she takes. Jason Bateman makes the film. He is convincing and hilarious as the diabolical super-cripple. So much so that the revelation about him, fortunately near the end, is where the movie falters. Not only was it unnecessary, it actually diminished the film.
5
Jason steals the show! by Shellyne
Three of my favorite comedians in one movie: Zach, Amanda and Jason. I have to say though, Jason stole the show! He was hilarious! We took our two teenagers (probably not a good idea for the younger kids because of the sexual content) and they loved it as well. I definitly recommend this movie and hope you all enjoy it as much as we did!
4
The Ex by Diane Bellizzi
Not a great movie, but fun mindless entertainment. My husband and I both had a few laughs---we both liked Zach and Amanda.
3
Go, If there nothing else to see by NathanielQueen
A very filmsy dark comedy.
2
Predictable. by hereiam29
I was looking for a funny movie. There were three funny points. It was SOOO predictable. I hate spending money on a movie that should have gone right to DVD.
4
If you like Zach Braff... GO!!!!! by UF_Gators
In order for you to enjoy this movie to the fullest, you have to love/know Zach Braff (Scrubs, Garden State, The Last Kiss)... His smart, quirky humor makes this movie. The movie isn't a blockbuster hit, but if you are into a good laugh and light watching movie... see it. The movie definitely doesn't "suck" and is in fact very funny if you know GOOD humor when you see it.