Flash of Genius (PG-13, 2008)
common sense media says
Inventor fights for recognition in feel-good film.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this fact-based "feel good" drama focuses on a determined man's unflagging quest to receive credit for his invention. Ultimately, it's heartening to see how far he gets, though some scenes may be overwhelming for very young children (for example, when the main character has a nervous breakdown). At times, the protagonist seems neglectful of his marriage and kids, but overall they're close and supportive. There's some swearing (including "s--t" and one use of "f--k"), social drinking, and smoking, but there's no violence or age-inappropriate sexual content.
Violence:
A man shows up unannounced at a company event and makes a scene; he's ushered out by security. A man throws a drink at a car. Otherwise, the battles are largely in the courtroom.
Sex:
A little bit of kissing and sexual innuendo.
Language:
Some use -- at times by children -- of the words "bastard," "damn," and "s--t." One use of "f--k."
Consumerism:
Since the film is set in Detroit, there are many mentions of the big American automotive companies: Ford, Chrysler, GM. Car decals and logos are displayed, as is signage for dealerships and manufacturers. Some mention of Case Western University and Pepsi.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Some social drinking; some smoking by minor characters (accurate for the time period).
More on Flash of Genius
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Most useful reviews by all members
wonder dove
adult
adult
I liked it...a lot.
This was a refreshing movie. It was nice to learn something about an inventor, something I never knew. There is a good message to be learned here, and also a not-so-good message. The good one is that you should never give up your dream, no matter what anyone thinks of it. For the bad, choosing your dream over family is not such a great thing, but hey that's life! And that was his life! He chose it. Having someone come along and rip your heart out of your sleeve will hurt bad, and that's what Ford did. I understood his pain. Young kids wont understand this movie, I think it will be too slow for them. I say 4/5 stars, especially Kinnear's acting, I love him!!
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gokuro
parent of 14 and 15 year old
parent of 14 and 15 year old
Nice business story, not a good family lesson
The movie has a good David vs Goliath story in the business sense but unfortunately David pretty much looses his entire family in order to defeat Goliath. Not exactly what I would want young kids to learn. Older children may be able to understand that part of the story is not exactly a good life lesson.
There is some bad language but it is brief and is rare.
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san anselmo
adult
adult
ok
this movie was ok i thought it was a little boring in some parts. not my kind of movie. -christian, 10 yrs.
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