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Confessions of a Dangerous Mind

(2002, Rated R, Drama, Starring Drew Barrymore, Julia Roberts, Sam Rockwell)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 16, age appropriate for kids over 99; suggested age 16.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Well-acted and well-written, for mature teens+.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 16–18

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    One of the themes of the movie is how "nice" people might do cruel things in secret.

  • Violence:

    Not frequent, but graphic: shootings, hand-to-hand violence, etc.

  • Sex:

    Several references and depictions of sexual activity.

  • Language:

    The f-word is used freely and frequently.

  • Consumerism:

    Barris' game shows are a focal points in the film.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    The characters drink frequently, some reference to LSD.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Confessions of a Dangerous Mind

Parents need to know that this movie is about a seemingly "ordinary guy" becoming a government-hired murderer. The main character painstakingly lies to loved ones in order to cover up his participation in brutal crimes. There are many instances of strong language, and crimes are depicted graphically. Furthermore, parents should know that the film features many popular actors (George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Drew Barrymore), thus increasing the chance that children are going to know about the film and want to see it.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the consequences of secrecy and betrayal. How does Chuck Barris's career as a contract murderer influence his "regular" job as a television producer? What are the effects of this on his relationships with loved ones? How do Chuck's relationships with other women influence his relationship with Penny? Families can also discuss the notion of "quality entertainment" in relation to this movie. Why do people react so strongly (positively and negatively) to the television shows that Chuck produces? Why might people be concerned about the effects of television content on families and children?
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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Adult Reviewer
    Rachel D
    I rate this title off for age 17 and give it 0.0

    What was that??

    I turned this one right off. Stupid, confusing and a big waste of time.

    This review...

    Helped me decide | Had useful details | Read my mind
    Flag as inappropriate

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