Iffy for 13+
Don't bet on Barrymore's lackluster poker rom-com.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this isn't a typical bright and bubbly Drew Barrymore romantic comedy. While there's not much sex or violence, there's plenty of antisocial behavior and compulsive gambling. One character runs a telephone scam, while others live in bathrooms to win bets. The main character steals his girlfriend's money and gambles away someone else's. He also encourages his girlfriend to lie and cheat for him. Goons looking to collect on his debts throw him into an empty pool, where he scrapes up his face. Some swearing and drinking.
- Families can talk about the media's fascination with poker. Is it fun to watch people gambling? Why? Do you think there's some voyeurism involved? The movie's theatrical release date was delayed several times, making its poker-centric storyline less of the moment and timely -- does that affect how much you do or don't enjoy it? How are release dates determined to begin with? Who decides when the "best" time to put something in theaters is, and how does that affect a movie's success or failure? Families can also discuss gambling addiction. Do you agree with Huck when he says that he's not hurting anyone but himself? What would you do in his situation?
The good stuff
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Messages: Lots of gambling, stealing, and lying, though Billie insists on being honest. One character runs a 1-900 scam.
What to watch for
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Violence: Goons threaten Huck and throw him into an empty swimming pool.
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Sex: Billie hikes up her skirt to ride on a bike. Billie and Huck kiss; later it's implied that they've had sex. They lie in bed together naked, covered by a sheet.
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Language: Some salty language, including "s--t."
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Consumerism: Las Vegas is practically a main character. The Bellagio and Luxor casinos get a lot of attention. Canon cameras are also featured.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Lots of people casually drink beer, but none to excess.
Fan Reviews provided by
4
Lucky You by timlin
Although probably NOT a candicate for an Academy Award, it was a fun movie, and some good family and moral values threaded thoughout the story. Of course, my husband LOVES to watch Championship Poker, so he enjoyed it also. It was a sweet romantic comedy to be enjoyed when you just aren't up for one of the wild, unrealistic Sci-Fi's, or murder and blood & guts. This gives you a funny, enjoyable alternative.
3
too many poker analogies by mlockwoo79
This movie was very boring. My husband, and AVID poker player was even excited about seeing it, and it was so dull he wanted to leave the theater!! A rental at BEST. very disappointed.
5
Don't Listen to the "Critics" - A must see! by rabid_nerd
How often do the critics dump on the best movies?
5
Awesome Movie! ! ! by todd2rip
Amazing movie, better then Rounders ! ! !
5
Chick flick by Volleyball 1
I luv it!
5
Lucky You by mochettes
It was very realistic especially the poker tournament. My husband and I enjoyed it very much.
1
LUCKY LOSER- I'd rather look at 7-2 off suit all day by rosiespinrad
I never send in reviews but this movie was sooooo bad that I wanted to spare America and save their time. Not only do I live in Vegas and play poker but this movie allowed me to sleep in Vegas... Terrible acting..long slow moments actually put both me and the wife to sleep..We tried to make it better but there was absoultely no redeeming factors for my money or anytime..a complete waste..I'd rather be looking at 7-2 offsuit all day than watch this
4
lucky you by dajonz
As an adult I would rather have seen this movie instead of Spiderman because of its realism. Life's lesson about forgiveness and holding grudges only leads to unhappy people and destroyed souls. Drew Barrymore was cute too!!