What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Will Smith + holidays usually equals blockbuster. But this drama's mysterious title and trailer may turn off younger fans who'd rather see a comedy or fantasy. And viewers in the mood for a feel-good story should look elsewhere: The movie tackles heavy themes like what it means to live a meaningful life, embracing death in the face of a terminal illness, and using grief as a motivation to act selflessly. The language and consumerism are mild, the violence is limited to (admittedly disturbing) scenes of two fatal incidents, and the sexuality is one love scene featuring a bare shoulders and backs. All of that said, the central message -- giving of yourself no matter what the cost -- may be too mature for young viewers to handle.
- Families can talk about the film's emphasis on altruism. What messages does it send about generosity? Is it a positive message?
- Was Ben saintly or insane -- or is it a little of both?
- Families canalso discuss how the movie develops as a suspenseful drama. Howspecifically was it suspenseful? Was the end predictable, or did itsucceed in being a "big reveal"?
- How does Smith's character herecompare with others he's played? Do you prefer him in dramas orcomedies/action-adventures? Why?