Minutemen (NR)
Fun time-travel comedy tweaks social stereotypes.
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- Studio: Disney
- Directed By: Lev Spiro
- Cast: Jason Dolley, Luke Benward, Nicholas Braun
- Running Time: 92 minutes
- Release Date: 1/25/2008
- Video/DVD Release Date: 5/27/2008
- Genre: Science Fiction
- MPAA Rating: NR
Parents need to know
Families can talk about social labels. Do you think the movie's depiction of high school cliques is accurate? How can these labels be hurtful? Kids: Do you think anyone has labeled you? How does that feel? Families can also discuss time travel. Why is it such a common plot device? Do you think the characters use their technology wisely? Are there any embarrassing moments in your past you would like to change?
Message
Social Behavior:
Plenty of stereotyping of high school characters, including jocks, geeks, and cheerleaders -- though the point of the movie is to show how people can transcend these labels. The heroes steal a key scientific formula from NASA to build their time machine and later must lie to teachers to hide the device. A popular guy cheats on his girlfriend but gets what he deserves when she breaks up with him. Lots of bullying, often just for the sake of being mean (but the heroes try to prevent these incidents).
Consumerism:
Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco:
Violence
Some slapstick antics and frequent bullying, but no fighting.
Sex
No sex or nudity, though there's some kissing. One couple argues over infidelity issues.
Language
No swearing, but frequent name calling -- particularly "geek," "nerd" and "dork."
Common Sense says
What's the story?
Reviewed by Will Wade
Is it any good?
The film's strength is the way that it lays out these stereotypes and then tweaks them. When Zeke examines the plans for the time machine, he surprises everyone with his knowledge of advanced physics. "Yes, Mongo read," he tells Virgil and Charlie, making it clear that he knows he's considered a brain-dead loser -- and simultaneously proving that he's not. And as the trio saves other nerds from humiliation, the school's dorks and geeks begin to gain confidence, upsetting the entire social order for the better. Though parts of the film are silly and predictable, Minutemen offers a fun look at what school could be.
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