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Happy Endings

(2005, Rated R, Drama, Starring Lisa Kudrow, Steve Coogan, Maggie Gyllenhaal)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 17, age appropriate for kids over 18; suggested age 17.

  • Is it any good?

    2.0

  • Common Sense says

    Very mature relationship comedy isn't for kids.

Why We Rated This not for kids

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Characters lie and worry about lying.

  • Violence:

    A car accident.

  • Sex:

    Sexual activity and discussions (abortion, homosexuality, masturbation).

  • Language:

    Strong, in intimate use -- conversations and arguments.

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Drinking, smoking, some drug use.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Happy Endings

Parents need to know that this movie includes sexual language and situations (one discreet insinuation of masturbation), drinking, smoking, and some drug use. It features a violent start (a woman is hit by a car), frank discussions of abortion and artificial insemination, as well as characters' lies regarding parentage, sexual orientation, background (for instance, illegal immigration and marriage), and ambitions. Themes are designed for mature viewers, though difficult ideas are here turned into comedy (some of this is bittersweet).

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Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about this movie's complex relationships between parents and children. Why might Mamie be worried about meeting her son, whom she gave up for adoption 20 years ago? How does Otis' fear of his father's reaction to his homosexuality lead to his flawed decisions? And how does Charley's anxiety concerning Gil's potential fatherhood lead him to jump to conclusions? How does the movie make the case for open communications, as a way to avoid tension and distrust?
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