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Cocktail

(1988, Rated R, Drama, Starring Tom Cruise, Gina Gershon, Elisabeth Shue)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 16, age appropriate for kids over 17; suggested age 16.
  • Is it any good?

    2.0
  • Common Sense says

    Traditional values trump glitz. Not for kids.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 16–17

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Alcohol consumption is excessive and done with little consequence. Education is deemed important. However, classes and teachers are shown as boring and irrelevant. The hero eventually chooses love over money.
  • Violence:

    Barroom brawls and a suicide.
  • Sex:

    Simulated sex with two different women, with little nudity.
  • Language:

    Very strong language,
  • Consumerism:

    Brands of alcoholic drinks are shown but not referred to by brand name.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    The movie's plot revolves around alcohol.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Cocktail

Parents need to know that sex and alcohol consumption play a large part in this movie; the R rating is appropriate. The film features simulated sex with two different women, with little nudity. There are a couple of fistfights, and the aftermath of a suicide is shown. Excessive drinking is integral to the movie's plot and yet there are no particular consequences beyond a hangover.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about what Brian learns from the suicide of his best friend and mentor. How does Doug's death inspire him to work hard to attain his dream? Families may also want to discuss the role of alcohol in this film. How is it glamorized? Is there an overall good message to the film?

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Teen Reviewer Age 16
    Lives in Florida
    I rate this title iffy for age 2 and give it 4.0

    Not an 'R'

    I would rate this movie a PG-13. The language isn't THAT horrible. The violence is brief compared to other movies out today. Wow a fistfight. Woopee. It's a good movie with a good lesson. A guy cheats on his girlfriend but feels absolutely horrible about it, especially after he finds out she's pregnant.It's not a bad movie.

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