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Marathon Man

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 16, age appropriate for kids over 18; suggested age 17.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Film's notorious torture scene means adults only.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 17–18

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    The main character stands up to a Nazi criminal, but does so in a violent and unlawful manner.

  • Violence:

    Bloody shootings, strangling, knifings, fistfights, graphic torture, car chases, etc.

  • Sex:

    Nude sex scene.

  • Language:

    Not an issue.

  • Consumerism:

    The action is motivated by characters' desire for jewels.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Casual drinking of alcohol.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Marathon Man

Parents need to know that this is an action film full of violence. Numerous fights take place with various weapons ranging from fists and razor wire to guns and knives. Many fights and standoffs end with characters dying in bloody and graphic ways. Tense scenes feature a character being tortured with dental equipment. A flashback sequence shows a young child discovering his father dead on the floor after having committed suicide. One nude sex scene takes place. Many characters use explicit language in anger and frustration.

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Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about this film's representation of masculinity. How does Dustin Hoffman's character have to change in order to succeed? Can you think of other movies that require men to resort to violence to protect themselves or their families? What do you think of these portrayals?
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