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Max Dugan Returns

(1983, Rated PG, Comedy, Starring Matthew Broderick, Jason Robards, Marsha Mason)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 8, age appropriate for kids over 9; suggested age 10.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Comic, clever, and satisfying fairy tale of redemption.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 10 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Most of the leading characters are responsible, ethical, exhibiting good values and good citizenship. The police officer, in particular, is shown to be compassionate, honest, and reliable. The exception is Max Dugan, himself, who has been a neglectful father, con artist, and lawbreaker. Max arrives to make amends for his past deeds, admitting wrongdoing and attempting to atone for his lifelong bad behavior.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Brief scene in which convenience store is held up at gunpoint, policeman chases robber, and a short scuffle ensues as he is taken into custody. Single mother is frightened when shadowy figure appears in window. She gets out a well-hidden gun as protection. No real danger as figure proves to be harmless.

  • Sex:

    Two gently affectionate kisses between adults beginning a relationship.

  • Language:

    Some mild, infrequent cursing as a result of frustration and anger: "Goddamit," "dirty bastards," "s--t," "hell."

  • Consumerism:

    Lots of products seen and/or mentioned as the plot revolves around a struggling family being given gifts of all kinds: Mercedes, GE, Westinghouse, Yamaha, Gelataio. Among other visible products: Dove, Skippy, Hungry Jack.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    A teen boy sneaks a cigarette on two occasions; reference to and quick glimpse of a teen drug transaction on school grounds; principal character smokes cigars throughout. Wine seen at dinner table and adults share shots of brandy.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Max Dugan Returns

Parents need to know that there is some mild swearing as the heroine reacts with frustration and anger to several vehicles being stolen from her. A short scene shows a convenience store robbery at gunpoint and the subsequent arrest of the suspect, with a brief scuffle. Finally, underneath the warm comic tone of this film, there is a weighty situation.Max Dugan has been given only a short time to live in order to redeem himself after a life as a liar, con artist, and neglectful father. He speaks of his impending death on a number of occasions, accepting his fate (if the audience is to believe him) gracefully and with humor.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the nature of the fairy tale. How does Max Dugan, the movie's "fairy godfather," make Norah's and Mike's wishes come true? What important gifts besides the fancy cars, furniture, etc., does he give them? After Max explains how he got the money, do you agree that Norah and Mike should accept his presents?
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