This is an excellent look at Ralph Nader, a consumer activist and presidential candidate. The message of the film will reverberate with most Americans except for the hardcore advocates of unregulated capitalism: Reaganites and the Ayn Rand fans. Even they could learn something from what Nader has to say. Young kids probably will be bored with the subject matter here, so don't expect them to put down the video game and watch this instead. Other than a few swear words (used in a relatively benign context) there is nothing objectionable about the material - no sex, no drugs/alcohol, no violence. If your teens are interested in politics, sociology and/or economics, this film is a definite candidate for their consumption. The movie is not entirely one-sided, as it does show the viewpoint of Democrats who were concerned that Nader's presidential campaign helped throw the 2000 election to George W. Bush. But conservatives, moderates, liberals and socialists alike should be able to relate to Nader's message about corporate power versus the idea of an America "of, by, and for the people."
Tools for this page
An Unreasonable Man
-
Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 11, age appropriate for kids over 13; suggested age 13. -
Is it any good?
-
Common Sense says
Compelling Nader docu isn't just for lefties.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 13 and Up
The good stuff
What to watch out for
-
Violence:
-
Sex:
-
Language:
-
Consumerism:
-
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
About An Unreasonable Man
Parents need to know that this documentary comes from a clearly leftist perspective in its discussion of citizenship, activism, and electoral politics. This is not an unbiased portrait of Nader or politics and people who disagree with Nader's politics may become angry watching this film. There are fleeting images of injured people being carted off in an ambulance after a car accident. There's also a lot of discussion of corporate corruption and of our government and our economy being corrupt, which may be too complex a topic for some teens. Other teens may take it as gospel, and have a hard time thinking critically about the documentary. So families interested in the subject matter will want to watch and discuss this movie together.
Read our full review by Heather Boerner
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about what their definition of a citizen is. Do you agree with Nader's father that the obligation of a school is not just to teach children to learn but also to think critically? This film is also a great opportunity to have a real discussion about electoral politics and third parties. Where do you stand on Nader's belief that the Republicans and Democrats are both corporate shills?
Our Members Say
Most Recent Reviews
- I rate this title on for age 13 and give it
Quality biography, family friendly, but too "smart" for young kids
Give Recommendations, Get Them, Too!
Become a member and get recommendations from other parents based on your child's age.Tell us your child's age:
Already a member? Log inOur Members Rate It
Have you seen it? 
For Your Family
Get age-based recommendations for your kids:
Customize based on your child's age
