Given that this film is produced by Charlize Theron it is not as offensive as it could have been (think "Monster"). It is a noble attempt to create a sympathetic tale of redemption but it winds up failing in that regard mostly. Note that 90% of all the swearing in the film is handled by Theron herself, other than that it is not much of a problem. The violence scene at the end while tragic is not the worst I've seen. Some cringing moments when Robb's troubled character swears a little and smokes (once, then seemingly gives it up). Individual performances are great though, Stahl, Woody Harrelson, and perhaps AnnaSophia Robb best of all. You want to like this movie and root for it but it justs can't seem to get off the ground, but watch it just for the great performances, that might be enough to redeem it.
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Sleepwalking
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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 15, age appropriate for kids over 18; suggested age 16. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Mature adult drama sinks under its own weight.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 16–18
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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Sex:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
About Sleepwalking
Parents need to know that even though one of the main characters in this film is an 11-year-old girl (played by popular tween star AnnaSophia Robb, at that), it has decidedly mature themes. The girl's mother clearly loves her but is deeply troubled: She swears at her daughter, removes her from her bedroom so she can use it to tryst with her boyfriend, and even abandons her. (She does somewhat redeem herself in the end.) The girl is, unsurprisingly, deeply affected by it all -- she swears and smokes, is wracked with insecurity, and trusts virtually no one. Later, she witnesses and is subjected to harsh violence. There's also a passing reference to drug use (Joleen's boyfriend goes to jail for growing pot), drinking, and strong language throughout.
Read our full review by S. Jhoanna Robledo
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about how "bad" parents are depicted in movies. Why are there so many films about moms and dads who don't seem suited to the job? Do you think the way they're characterized is realistic? What makes someone a "good" or "bad" parent? How does Joleen handle motherhood? Is it clear in the beginning that her child matters to her the most? Does she change in the end, or is James a more suitable parent, despite what happens?
Our Members Say
Most Recent Reviews
- I rate this title iffy for age 13 and give it
Good try but flawed results
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