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The Mighty (PG-13, 1998)

common sense media says

Good movie about friendship for middle schoolers.

parents & educators say
See 2 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this movie has some tense situations, children in peril, and a little violence.

Violence: Some, including children in peril.
Sex: Mild.
Language: Mild.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Menacing character abuses alcohol.
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More on The Mighty

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

Families can talk about whether they've ever felt like an outcast, and what they can do to deal with and even change that type of difficult situation.

What's the story?

What's the story?

In THE MIGHTY, Max (Eldon Henson), a huge boy who has flunked 7th grade twice and Kevin (Kieran Culkin), a tiny disabled boy, help each other in this moving story of the power of friendship and imagination. Inspired by stories of King Arthur's knights, they live by a code of chivalry and honor that leads them into adventures, some enlightening, some dangerous. At first, each completes the other, Kevin telling Max what to do as he rides on Max's strong shoulders. But Kevin ultimately helps Max learn to think for himself, and Max helps Kevin come to terms with his limitations by showing him what he has accomplished.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

The Mighty is a good movie to initiate a talk with middle schoolers about the way that all 7th graders feel like outcasts at times, and how what Max learns from Kevin makes it possible for him to survive a terrible family history and an abusive father. Kids may also want to read the book, Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Miramax
Director: Peter Chelsom
Cast: Gena Rowlands, Harry Dean Stanton, Sharon Stone
Genre: Drama
Run time: 100 minutes
Theatrical release: October 9, 1998
DVD release: July 13, 1999
MPAA Rating: PG-13
MPAA explanation: elements of violence and peril
This review was written by Nell Minow
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

lp1953
adult
10
 
I think 4th & 5th Grade students need to see this before Middle School. 4th is the new 6th. 10 is the new 13.
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Tsion
parent of 15 year old
 
Warm, Uplifting Tale with Tense Scenes and Questionable Content
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helped me decide (1) | had useful details (1) | read my mind (1)

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ON: Content is 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
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