What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that even though this drama about the difficult relationship between a father who still carries anger from the past and a son who suffers from a debilitating neurological condition is rated PG, it's more likely to interest mature teens and adults than younger kids. That said, there's not too much iffy stuff to worry about: sparing use of a few swear words ("a--hole," "s--t," "damn"), a guarded reference to a first sexual experience, some flirting and embracing, etc. There are references to being "stoned" and possible drug use, but nothing is shown. In scenes that flash back to the 1960s, there's some cigarette smoking, teens included.
- Families can talk about times when relationships between parents and kids are strained. What are some ways that your family deals with big issues and conflicts?
- Music changes from generation to generation and often causes a "culture clash" between kids and their parents. How did Henry finally learn to appreciate the music Gabriel loved? Kids: Is it important to you that your parents enjoy the music you listen to?
- Do you consider the characters in the movie to be role models? Is Henry a good father?