Iffy for 14+
OK romcom centers on sperm donation, single parenthood.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this romantic comedy, while not brimming with sexual content, does address the fairly complex, mature topic of becoming a single mother by choice ... and the methods necessary to accomplish that goal. Expect references to what a sperm donor does to collect his specimen behind closed doors, discussions about the insemination process, and visuals of the substance in question (in a cup, of course). There's also some swearing and a fair amount of drinking (one character, in fact, makes a critical decision while sloshed).
- Families can talk about the movie's message. What is it saying about families and how they form?
- What are the consequences of both Kassie and Wally's decisions? Do they seem realistic?
- How does this movie compare to other romantic comedies?
The good stuff
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Messages: The movie sends the message that while families don't always start traditionally, when love is the foundation, they have a great start. It also says that relationships take work and courage -- if you take a chance, you might just get what you want (although it does seem like one main character gets what he wants despite a big breach of trust).
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Role models: Kassie is a take-charge, take-chances kind of person, and both traits lead her to happiness. Wally has a great heart and is a loyal friend, but he can be neurotic, judgy, and discouraging.
What to watch for
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Violence: Not an issue
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Sex: The film's premise revolves around a woman's decision to have a baby on her own via a sperm donor, and there's much discussion about the mechanical aspects of this choice, including what men do to "collect" their donation. Couples also flirt and kiss.
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Language: Characters use words like "lard ass" and, occasionally, "s--t." Also "hell," "damn," and "oh my God."
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Consumerism: Labels for/references to Tide, Duane Reade, WebMD, Donkey Kong, Life Fitness, Equinox, and more.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Drinking at parties and restaurants. A main character sabotages his friend's pregnancy while he's heavily under the influence. Another character fishes a cigarette out of her bag and is about to smoke it before someone else swats it away. One reference to popping pills.
Fan Reviews provided by
4
Best 'couple' movie I have seen in a loooong time.... by lovestalentmoviefan
....no silly and unbelievable rescues from bombs and guns,no uncomfortable or gratuitous sex/nudity and no syrupy perfect people. Have to admit I am a huge Bateman fan,but I would say if the movie was bad. It is honest in the realities of women dealing with being single and childless as they get older. It is honest about the things that we don't see in life,in getting sidetracked by storybook ideals. It is predictable,but that's not a complaint.Not one person going in didn't know who was going to be with whom. The ride along the way is endearing and fun to watch. I have never thought Aniston did as good a job in any movie since The Good Girl,but in The Switch,you see real personal struggles..even to the last minute in some of her decisions. I really like it.Love must go movies like Inception this summer,but just a story with no gimmicks,just people and real human emotions was a nice break. Goldblum did a notable supporting job,and the child actor was perfect.
4
Five Word Review by okiestate5252
Funny Cute Meaningful Story Line
4
Cute by 2boysmom52
Gotta say I was expecting the same old romantic comedy! I was pleasantly surprised with the twist and turns this clever script took. Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman made a GREAT couple! I say grab the girls or even your guy and see this movie!
2
THE SWITCH-Switch my tickets for another movie! by joeandcindy
We were looking forward to this movie. We like both actors and especially Jennifer Anniston. This movie moved so slow. Without spoiling the end, it was just frustrating! I wish I would have used my money for another movie!
5
Five Word Review by anistonfan1
absolutely darling and extremely adorable
2
Not with it by bhultman
This movie just like many of aniston films always seem to come up short. She is a beautiful woman and actress but this movie lacked intensity and draw. I as thinking more about the movie sitting at home to finish after this one was over more so than the movie I was at.
5
loved it by nancym
I only went because the fan reviews were so good -- and I loved it! Really engaging movie -- GREAT performances by both Bateman and Anniston. Wonderful supporting role by Jeff Goldblum. Just a really humanistic, sweet, satisfying movie -- kinda like When Harry Met Sally, updated, with the relationship more subtly played.....Also I thought it wonderfully protrays the pure joy ofhaving a child.
2
The Switch: 1-1/2 hour of Wasted Talent by njnks
I was excited to see this movie because I'm a huge fan of Justin Bateman and Jennifer Aniston. Unfortunately, these talented actors didn't have much of a script to work with. Once you learn the premise (which can be deduced from any trailer) you have see the most interesting in the movie! The story drags in the middle and the resolution at the end is both cliche and forced. The boy was adorable and a very good actor but even his charms couldn't save this movie. I was very disappointed.