OK for kids 13+
Hanks and Roberts co-star in well-meaning but treacly drama.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this drama stars Tom Hanks as a recently downsized man adrift in life who decides to go to college. Julia Roberts co-stars as a bitter teacher stuck in a bad marriage who relishes her end-of-day drinks just a bit more than she should. The film's messages about finding unexpected joy in life are positive and uplifting, but unfortunately they're delivered in a superficial way. Expect some flirting and kissing, brief but strong swearing (including "f--k"), and ogling of online photos of bikini-clad women. One character drives drunk -- but there are consequences for that decision.
- Families can talk about the movie's messages. Who do you think they're most intended to appeal to?
- How does the movie portray drinking? Are the consequences of drinking presented realistically?
The good stuff
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Messages: The movie's message is that while life can deliver plenty of bumps and bruises, there's happiness awaiting those who are willing to open their heart to the unexpected and embrace change. Getting laid off, breaking up, losing a home -- all of these can seem very negative, on the surface, but they can also lead to positive new experiences.
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Role models: Larry is an appealing everyman who's friendly to all and draws out the best in everyone he meets. Mercedes is a bitter woman in an unhappy marriage who exits one situation and learns to find joy in the other.
What to watch for
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Violence: A couple gets into a heated argument. A man delivers steely glares to another man whom he thinks may have a crush on his girlfriend, despite evidence to the contrary.
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Sex: Some flirting and one exuberant, drunken kiss. One character is briefly seen perusing women in bikinis on the Internet; he later discusses his habits and preferences.
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Language: One brief, intense argument between a married couple features "screw you" and the F-word. Also infrequent use of words like "c--k," "ass," "damn," "hell," and "oh my God."
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Consumerism: Motor scooters play an important role in Larry's social evolution. He rides a battered Yamaha, while some of his new friends ride classic Vespas.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: One character drinks regularly to wash away the frustrations from her job, though she later begins to temper her habits. Another gets behind the wheel after drinking and is later arrested for driving while intoxicated.
Fan Reviews provided by
4
Enjoyed it! by saraklingebiel
Tom Hanks & Julia Roberts are 2 of the most likeable & watchable actors ever. Admit it. There was nothing at all bad about this movie. It was totally enjoyable. It just made me smile. He's totally believable in whatever role he does, you totally trust him as an actor to pull anything off, same goes for Ms. Roberts. The supporting cast was really fun & you could tell they were thrilled to have booked a job working with 2 of the most famous actors to have ever lived. Go escape for an hour & 40mins & see this cute little movie. you'll be glad you did. it'll also make you want to drive a scooter around even if you thought you'd never be caught dead driving one. :)
4
Warm, Almost Effortless Performances Worth Experiencing. by Alon Patterson
Although it's short on action, meaning no caped comic characters saving the world yet again, this film delivers genuine portrayals of ordinary people, doing ordinary things while going about their ordinary lives. Granted, this type of script is not for everyone, most especially the short attention span set. This is a movie with a subtlety all its own. Some might miss the whole point of the effort and go away certain that the characters were superficial, or the film lacking in plot or some other such nonsense. If you?re looking for an even-paced warm and fuzzy experience, this is your ticket. Or, there's always that film with the mutant alien decapitations in the theater next door. It's all about what you're into at the time. This one's worth the ticket price but don't expect a blockbuster. Sometimes less is more.
3
larry crowne by ywsf
it had good moments and poor moments. it was bad editing and didnt really flow. I was disappointed.I really wanted it to be great but it wasn't. its an average movie. Go see the bargain matinee.
4
Larry Crowne by grannyat39
Good!
4
Liked it! by ksenter
My husband and I enjoyed this movie. It has been a long time since we both wanted to see the same movie. Yes, it was slow at times, and yes, it was cliche, but it was a nice "date" movie for an old married couple.
4
LET THE STORY UNFOLD! by Litton62
This is a very sweet, enjoyable movie! If someone is anticipating a quick-moving romp as so many romantic comedies are these days, I say - be prepared to take your time with this one - enjoy letting the story unfold, and you'll be happy you did. This is a movie about mature adults facing crises and making their way through them. It moves the way life usually does -relationships unfold, people aren't predictable. I love the chemistry between Hanks and Roberts - a flame that builds slowly - as would be predictable for those who have been hurt before. The adorable supporting case nearly stole the show. Probably not for everyone - maybe for a little older audience although my 35 yo daughter loved it. A sweet story that will leave you believing in second chances.
3
The End is Near by ghomer
Julia Roberts and Tom Hanks have become cliche. After many good years with some good films they both seem to be stretching to find decent roles (in this case a film written by Hanks). It was a nice film that falls short of anything worth recommending. If you like these actors you will like the film, I just expect more.