OK for kids 10+
Offbeat romantic comedy is sweet but lightweight.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this fairy-tale-like film has a lot of heart. There's not much iffy content (a bit of drinking and innuendo is the bulk of it), and the main character is devoted to discovering her own identity and making peace with her circumstances, though it's sometimes hard for her to overcome her shame. Her parents -- especially her mother -- can't seem to accept her as she is, which could be upsetting for some younger viewers. But in the end (naturally), everything wraps up nicely.
- Families can talk about how this movie is like a fairy tale. What does it have in common with more traditional "once upon a time" stories? How is it different? What lesson do Penelope and her family learn from their curse? Are the men's reactions to Penelope understandable or reprehensible? What shapes their expectations of how a woman ought to look?
The good stuff
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Messages: Men -- and most of society, for that matter -- shun a woman for looking different. A man lies to get the chance to make money to pay gambling debts. A reporter devotes himself to digging up dirt that destroys a family. A main character runs away, hurting those left behind. A mother fixates on her daughter's looks. All of that said, though, the film has lots of heart.
What to watch for
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Violence: Men are cruel to Penelope when they see her face to face, and a guard has to tackle some of the suitors who run away. Max has a screaming fight with Lemon, who, in an earlier scene, gets injured for being too zealous at his scandal-seeking job.
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Sex: Lots of romance, but no sex (at least none shown). Some innuendo and kissing.
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Language: Rare use of words like "damn" and "hell."
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Consumerism: Not an issue
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Some beer drinking in a bar (Penelope has her first taste and enjoys it) and elsewhere. Incidental smoking.
Fan Reviews provided by
4
Cute story-tale like film by FanGyrl
If you're looking for cinematic genius, this isn't it. But you could tell that by the trailer. This film is cute for the kids. It gives the good message to be happy with who you are and that you don't need to change to matter to other people. It's just like the fairy-tales, there's always a moral at the end. Ricci's Penelope was lovable and even James McAvoy's rugged Max was magnetic at times. This is a film about loving yourself, even when the world may think you're a little weird, but then again, who isn't?
Take the kids, the whole family will enjoy it. Plus, how many PG movies that both kids and parents will like have been in theaters recently?
4
Penelope is a great family movie by PRB
I was pleasantly surprised by Penelope. It has a great message for people of all ages but especially young girls. I don't want to say too much more than that and spoil the plot. It was a clean and positive movie.
5
Penelope 1: Critics 0 by admirallily
Once again I must disagree with the reviews from critics I've read so far. I thought this show was amazing. I would have watched it again the moments the credits rolled if I were able and I'll definitely be purchasing my copy when it comes out on DVD. To be fair, the reviews I read didn't say it was a horrible movie but they certainly were shouting the praises this gem deserved, unfortunately. It seems these days if a movie isn't a total mind bender or out of this world special effects that leave you drooling, then it's not worth praise which is terribly sad I think. This movie was all kinds of sweet and wonderful. I highly recommend it. Five stars and two thumbs up all the way.
4
An Entertaining Movie for Parents and Children Alike by SBmeier
We took a gaggle of 13 year old girls to see this and they all enjoyed the movie. Although the storyline is familiar (to parents at least), the acting is good and there are a few plot twists that make it interesting and entertaining to watch.
4
Sweet movie by mrs.gosling
This was a cute movie -a less "hollywood" fairytale along the same lines as Enchanted- with an even better message. Took my children (boys) 6 & 7, (girl) 11 and we all enjoyed it. Good acting and I couldn't take my eyes off James McAvoy. This guy will be big. Good, lighthearded movie. Catch it at a matinee with the whole family
4
A nice family movie by Ern
After a long break between movies for the family Penelope is a nice break from the death and destruction Hollywood has been sending out lately. A sweet story about finding love and acceptance in unlikely places this movie is really great for all ages.
While the content will go over the head of the more younger viewers it is a sweet story for anyone 8 and older... especially those who are hitting those akward teen years.
5
Penelope by palomino220
I really liked this movie. One you can take the whole family to - Dad may snooze thru it.
It's very quirky and very sweet. Sends a good message to be happy at who you are.
The sets are very colorful- reminds me of a Tim Burton movie set. Reese is delightful as a "biker type"
chick, she also produced this little gem
4
Old School Morals - New School Presentation by GRgenius
"Don't judge a book by it's cover." At least that's what most of us were told growing up....that old adage plays out in this movie with a twist. In this modern day fairy tail, I mean tale, it all boils down to these words.....you can't judge someone purely on their appearance.....and you can't truly be loved by someone else until you learn to love yourself. I definitely recommend this movie if not for the actual content, but the special Twilight preview in the opening trailers. Happy watching!
5
Great Chick Flick Fairy Tale Style by Gr8ful in Vegas
Just got back from the movie and LOVED it! Cried several times throughout and plan to see it again. Christina Ricci is a fabulous Penelope, and James McAvoy is amazing with his American accent. Film is perfect for women/young ladies. Heartwarming and sweet. Enjoyable, endearing film.
4
Family Movie by NtheKnow
Entertaining and a movie for the family. My husband and I went to see it and enjoyed it just because it was delightful , decent, with a good message to accept your uniqueness as something special. There is no foul language or obsentities.