Finding Amanda (R, 2008)
common sense media says
Mature, uneven prostitution dramedy loses its way.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that teens probably won't be clamoring to see this mature dramedy. Which is just as well, since it attempts to put a light sheen on serious topics like prostitution but ultimately comes across as somewhat dismissive. There's a fair amount of swearing -- within the first 15 minutes alone, a panoply of cuss words (including "f--k") lets fly -- and a whole host of vices, from gambling to drinking and drug use. There's also some partial nudity (breasts) and implied sex. And even though he's lying through his teeth almost every time he opens his mouth, the lead character doesn't seem to feel much remorse about it.
Violence:
A woman attacks a man after he spits on her face and insults her; a man threatens the lead character after he's caught cheating; a pimp bloodies a man's nose and later breaks his by smashing a Dumpster lid on it. A man roughs up his girlfriend. A father allows his two young sons to play with guns; the only admonition is to aim below the waist.
Sex:
Bare breasts in a strip club. Some sex acts are implied, as when a woman is shown performing oral sex on a man (no genitals shown) while people casually hang out and conduct a drug deal. A lead character is a prostitute and talks candidly about what she does "at work." Pretty explicit descriptions of sex acts and references to body parts, as well as to infidelity.
Language:
Everything you can think of, all used early and often: "crap," "s--t," "f--k," "c--t," "dick," and more -- sometimes in front of children.
Consumerism:
Vegas signage; constant mention of Taylor's TV sitcom.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
A lead character relapses into previous drinking and drugging ways (Ecstasy is identified, as well as weed); dealers sell their wares; Vegas casinos ply visitors with drinks so they'll gamble more, and visitors are happy to imbibe, even if some of them are supposed to be on the wagon.
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