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Novocaine

(2001, Rated R, Drama, Starring Helena Bonham Carter, Laura Dern, Steve Martin)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    This dark, stylish tale isn't for kids.

Why We Rated This not for kids

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    None

  • Violence:

    Intense, graphic violence

  • Sex:

    Sexual references and situations, including implied incest

  • Language:

    Very strong language

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Drug-dealer and addict characters
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Novocaine

Parents need to know that this movie features graphic violence, murder, drug abuse, drug dealing, and sexual situations, including incest and betrayal. Characters use very strong language.

Read our full review by Nell Minow

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about how people can feel suffocated by doing everything "right." Why was Frank so fascinated by Susan? Why did he put up with Harlan? What did he really think of Jean? Why was it so hard for him to understand what he wanted? What do you think the author was trying to tell us with the names of the characters, like Jean Noble and Susan Ivy and Frank?
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