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Say Anything

(1989, Rated PG-13, Drama, Starring Joan Cusack, John Cusack, Ione Skye)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 13, age appropriate for kids over 15; suggested age 13.

  • Is it any good?

    5.0

  • Common Sense says

    A gem of a coming-of-age story.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 13–15

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Not an issue.

  • Violence:

    When Lloyd gets knocked down kickboxing, his bones have to be snapped back into place.

  • Sex:

    Teens have sex in the back seat of a car. Not much is shown, but the event is discussed afterwards. The teenagers are also shown in bed, under the sheets.

  • Language:

    Mild and limited, with one use of the "f-word."

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Say Anything

Parents need to know that this 1980s classic survives as an excellent, coming-of-age movie for teens. Teens-to-be may also enjoy it, but it may not be suitable for them, with its graphic teen drinking, teen sex and parental betrayal. More than just a teen flick, Say Anything... boasts fine performances, a lot of humor, and a well-chosen soundtrack. This is a true-to-life depiction of teen life. Both teens deal with the pain of broken families and oppressive family expectations.

Read our full review by Randy White

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about why Diane trusted Lloyd and why Diane's father acted the way he did. How do they cope with the stresses of teenage life?
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