 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Harold and Maude
- Review Date: August 3, 2005
- PG
- Genre: Comedy
- 1971
Common Sense Media says
A classic of dark comedy.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this movie deals with strong adult themes, such as Harold's obsession with suicide, and makes references to the Vietnam War and the Holocaust. But the overarching message of embracing life is a good one, especially for moody teens.
What's the story?
Hal Ashby's 1971 black comedy Harold and Maude attained cult status for its portrayal of a morbid youth who falls in love with a spirited woman not twice, but four times his age. Maude's (Ruth Gordon) full-throttle zest for life inspires young Harold (Bud Cort), who is dramatically obsessed with death. It's a disquieting premise for a movie, certainly, but to dwell on the age difference of the characters is to miss the movie's point. More than a friend or lover, Maude infects the troubled Harold with her carpe diem attitude, freeing him from the inner demons of boredom and self-pity. In essence, she's his salvation.
Is it any good?
This wonderfully rich black comedy has a way of putting life's problems in perspective, especially for troubled youths. The movie's stormy themes may strike a special cord with teenagers who feel at times that no one understands them. They, and adults as well, will appreciate the dark humor that leads to a bright resolution. Parents of young teens, however, should be cautioned about mature subject matter and sexual situations.
Alarmingly pale Bud Cort gives us an idea of what frail Tiny Tim from A Christmas Carol might look like at age 20, and Ruth Gordon's sprightliness lends the perfect counterbalance. Their performances earned them each a well-deserved Golden Globe nomination. The Cat Stevens soundtrack hasn't lost its impact over the years. In a movie that references Vietnam, his songs feel as natural a Volkswagen Bug and girls named Sunshine. The lyrics speak for the characters, reminding us that if you want to sing out, sing out, and if you want to be free, be free.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about why Harold acted out the way he did. What was he trying to get from his increasingly violent suicide attempts? How does Maude use humor to cope with things that Harold may find paralyzingly depressing?
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AGE
Hilarious, simple, and to the point
"Harold and Maude," while a mature movie, and really not intended for kids at all, is a fantastic, short film for all to see. Harold's "suicides" are hilarious instead of gruesome, and Maude is such a free spirit, really symbolizing the intolerance but calm point in all of us, especially today's generation of kids.
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AGE
13 is about right, but know your kid
I agree with the site's ratings and comments. I think it is well worth it, but know your kids.
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| Topics: | misfits and underdogs |
| Studio: | Paramount Pictures |
| Director: | Hal Ashby |
| Cast: | Bud Cort, Ruth Gordon, Vivian Pickles |
| Genre: | Comedy |
| Run time: | 91 minutes |
| Theatrical release date: | January 1, 1971 |
| DVD release date: | June 27, 2000 |
| MPAA rating: | PG |
| MPAA explanation: | thematic elements. |
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