The Other Sister (PG-13, 1999)
common sense media says
Overly sentimental movie is unlikely to interest teens.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this film explores the challenges that a family faces when their developmentally-disabled daughter fights for independence and reacts to her own growing sexuality. The filmmakers take great care to introduce the young lovers (both of whom are mentally impaired) to sex in a mature and sensitive way. There is some kissing and they begin to undress, but with no actual nudity or foreplay. Language includes some terms associated with the human reproductive system. "Doing it" is the only way sexual intercourse is described. A young woman is seen in bed with her female sexual partner, and their lesbianism provides a separate challenge to some members of the family. There is alcohol consumption in social settings, and the young male lead purposefully gets drunk on two occasions and misbehaves.
Positive role models:
Mentally-challenged young adults sometimes have assets and resources that may be unexpected. Given a chance to grow and flourish, some special-needs people are able to function independently and live safely. Teachers, employers, and co-workers are portrayed as supportive, helpful, and caring.
Violence:
A child, upset by a group of other children who are teasing her, pushes one of them down a flight of carpeted stairs. He is not injured.
Sex:
The issue of mentally-challenged young people engaging in sexual activity is a main story element. The two people involved read and study The Joy of Sex to educate themselves. "Doing it" is a repeated euphemism for intercourse. The couple kisses, undresses to their underwear, and moves off camera to make love. Another character is involved in a monogamous lesbian relationship, the acceptance of which by her family is another plot point.
Language:
Though there is no swearing or harsh language, sexual terms are used on a few occasions: "penis," "semen," "sperm," "vulva," ""doing it.""
Consumerism:
Coca-Cola.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Some social drinking: dinner table, wedding. One main character gets drunk on two occasions and his outrageous behavior affects the story's outcome. Another character is identified as a recovering alcoholic.
More on The Other Sister
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StepMomSterToo
parent
parent
Good for older kids
The relationship aspects of this movie make it a great family movie for older kids, but I am a little worried about the subject of sex. If you aren't comfortable with the subject of sex becoming a topic of conversation, than avoid this movie. Other than that I think it is a great celebration of individuality and overcoming obstacles.
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