Pariah Review

Messages: The movie's most consistent message is that no matter what anyone says or who they are, you should be true to yourself. Determining who you really are and being able to be proud of that is a challenge, but it's worth it.

Role models: Alike is the most sympathetic character; she's caring and aims for authenticity. Though she sometimes stumbles in her quest to be true to her real self, she at least tries very hard to be as honest as she can while protecting herself, since so many people around her can't or won't accept her for what she is.

Violence: A husband and wife argue loudly and sometimes viciously. Men leer and harass a young woman at a store. Some references to street crime; also, some characters are homophobic and refer to LGBT people with slurs.

Sex: A young woman seduces a female classmate who has never had a sexual experience before (no nudity, but some kissing). Teenage girls ogle strippers at a bar. One scene shows a clothed woman wearing a phallic sex toy. A man is having an affair -- viewers don't see any of the trysts, but there are major hints -- but vehemently denies it.

Language: Coarse language throughout includes "f--k," "s--t," "bitch," "d--k," and the "N" word.

Consumerism: Not an issue

Drinking, drugs and smoking: Underage drinking and pot smoking at bars, parties, and gatherings.