The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio (PG-13, 2005)
common sense media says
Charming but a bit disturbing; ok for teens.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this movie includes several tense family scenes, specifically when the father is inebriated and the mother must smooth over his anger and ugliness in front of their children. At one point, furious that a son has had a car accident, the father starts hitting and chasing him through the house; and in an especially disturbing scene, following a brief struggle, the mother falls on glass milk bottles she's carrying, spilling milk and her blood (from the broken glass) all over the floor, as children look on and cry. The kids reveal their own fears and resentment, fretting that Mom will leave even for a day, and once singing a version of "Row your boat" where they imagine throwing Dad overboard "just to hear him scream."
Violence:
Mom is injured during a fall in the home (alarming her kids); dad becomes violent against furniture when drunk.
Sex:
Not applicable.
Language:
Some cursing, out of frustration and anger (including the f-word).
Consumerism:
All about advertising: brands named include: Dial, Beechnut gum, Frigidaire, Parkay, Ritz crackers, Samonsite, Black Label beer, Dr. Pepper.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Dad is an unhappy, belligerent alcoholic.
More on The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio
Review It
Most useful reviews by all members
nightowl
adult
adult
What a well done movie!
I watched this based on a friend's recommendation. I wasn't quite sure what to expect. The cast plays their parts VERY WELL! I couldn't decide if I wanted to hate or pity the Dad. I watched this with my preteen, and teenager. I would definitely not recommend this to the under 12 set. There are some very disturbing images, and some pretty hard scenes to deal with. And if you have a sensitive, older kid, you might want to pass this by as well. Both of my kids really liked it, and we watched it 2x in one afternoon! I hope you enjoy it too.
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cdg96
teen, 15 years old
teen, 15 years old
heartwarming, ok for older kids, great choice for teens and adults
Such a great film: heartwarming, but fresh. It is a crowd pleaser, and is a great choice for adults, teens, and kids ages 10-12 and up, depending on maturity level. There is some domestic violence, lots of drinking, and foul language, but, for most, it shouldn't pose a problem.
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tanakate
teen, 18 years old
teen, 18 years old
A great movie for more mature teenagers.
I have contradicting opinions, in regards to recommending this movie.
For more mature teens, I think it is a great movie, that will make you think.
It shows just what exactly many "50's housewives" often had to deal with.
Dead beat husbands who abuse them.
I wouldnt recommend it to any kids under 13 unless they are mature for their age.
Over all, I was very glad that I saw it. An absolute wonderful movie.
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