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The Flying Scotsman

(2007, Rated PG-13, Drama, Starring Jonny Lee Miller, Billy Boyd, Laura Fraser)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 13, age appropriate for kids over 0; suggested age 13.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Cycling drama doesn't quite race to the finish.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 13 and Up

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    The main character makes a valiant effort to stay noble in the face of unfair judging during a race. He also clearly demonstrates that he's not a quitter. There are some dark moments when he's lost in the fog of depression and bullying by classmates when he's younger.

  • Violence:

    Obree is bullied as a child (kicked, shoved, and worse) and meets up with the same mean crowd later, at which point he reacts with rage. He also tries to kill himself by hanging. (A father and a child find him.) Some shouting between Obree and his manager.

  • Sex:

    Some kissing between couples, but no more than that (sex is only hinted at).

  • Language:

    Mild. Some use of "damn."

  • Consumerism:

    Bicycle paraphernalia, including wheels by Specialized.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Drinking in pubs and at post-race celebrations (champagne popping).
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Flying Scotsman

Parents need to know that this based-on-a-true story sports movie aspires to be inspirational, which works half the time. But it also brings up questions about depression and madness, including an onscreen suicide attempt, which may not be answered by the film itself -- and may be tricky for teens to put into context. Other than that, the content is pretty mild.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about how the media creates a hero. What did Obree have to live up to in terms of his fame? How does this portrayal compare to what you've seen in other sports movies? Does it sometimes seem like all famous sports figures have to overcome adversity? Does what happens in their personal life matter, or should significance be placed solely on what they achieve in their field?
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