Skateland Review

Messages: Although the movie's major refrain is that the teens in this small Texas town need to do something -- anything -- with their lives (and all the better if they can leave town to do so), very few actually face this challenge or overcome those odds. Viewers see examples of characters who have failed and returned.

Role models: The main character is passive and irresponsible. He's a talented writer, though viewers rarely see him writing or making any attempt to use his talent to better his life. He'd rather work his job at Skateland and drink with his friends. When something finally happens to him, it's not because of his own doing.

Violence: A few bullies show up from time to time and threaten violence. In one sequence, they bash in the back window of a car with a baseball bat, which results in a chase and a car crash. Eventually there's a fight sequence that includes smashing with a stick, some blood, and attempted choking.

Sex: A teen couple kisses and has sex (no nudity shown). Also lots of sexual innuendo, flirting (including one scene of homosexual flirting), and ogling of pretty girls. Though there are some strong women in this story, women are frequently treated as objects.

Language: Language is infrequent but strong, including several uses of "s--t" and "a--hole." Also insults like "slut," "faggot," and "queer bait."

Consumerism: Not an issue

Drinking, drugs and smoking: Teen characters are regularly seen smoking cigarettes, drinking all kinds of alcohol (mostly beer, as well as some scotch), and occasionally smoking pot. Nearly everyone smokes cigarettes, including adults.