Common Sense Media Review
By Rich Phippen
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
C.S. Lewis biopic has great performances but no kid appeal.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
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Shadowlands
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
SHADOWLANDS tells the story of highly respected author, poet, and teacher C.S. Lewis (Anthony Hopkins) -- or Jack, as he's known to his friends. Jack lacks passion in his life, but when he meets Joy (Debra Winger), a bullish, frank American woman he's been corresponding with, she ignites something in him. Jack finds himself questioning whether he's willing to allow himself to have feelings for her -- something he hasn't allowed himself to do for many years.
Is It Any Good?
Understated, nuanced performances from Hopkins and Winger do justice to a script that subtly explores the feelings and emotions of the lead characters. Winger was nominated for Best Actress Oscar for her performance as Joy, while Hopkins' portrayal of Jack earned him a BAFTA for best actor. Richard Attenborough's direction is unfussy, leaving the actors to do their thing against picturesque backdrops of the English countryside.
The lack of action in Shadowlands -- very little happens beyond the lead characters talking in a variety of settings -- means that younger audiences may struggle to climb onboard. But for those who do, the performances are so engaging that it's impossible not to feel touched by the relationships depicted on screen.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the relationship between Jack and Joy in Shadowlands. Why do they take so long to admit they have romantic feelings for one another? Could Jack have communicated his affections in a better way? Did they miss out by not doing it earlier?
Discuss the death in the movie. How did it make you feel? Does the fact that the movie is based on real events impact how you feel?
How does Jack demonstrate compassion?
Why do you think there are so few women in Jack's world? Do you think it's a realistic portrayal of the time period? Have times changed?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 14, 1994
- On DVD or streaming : April 13, 1999
- Cast : Anthony Hopkins , Debra Winger , Julian Fellowes
- Director : Richard Attenborough
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Savoy Pictures
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : History
- Character Strengths : Compassion
- Run time : 131 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic elements
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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