Common Sense Media Review
By S. Jhoanna Robledo
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Offbeat dramedy mixes light and dark; some intense moments.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Silver Linings Playbook
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 9 parent reviews
Based on 42 kid reviews
Kids say the film contains strong language and mature themes, making it more suitable for older teens and adults. While many appreciate its heartfelt storytelling and the realism of its portrayal of mental health struggles, the frequent profanity and some sexual content can be off-putting for younger audiences; however, it is recommended for its emotional depth and humor.
- mature themes
- strong language
- emotional depth
- great performances
- mental health portrayal
- recommended for teens
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Fresh off a stint at a mental institution after beating up his estranged wife's lover -- and discovering belatedly that he's bipolar, with mood swings and even delusions triggered by stress -- Pat Solatano (Bradley Cooper) is determined to win his spouse back. He's lost weight and has learned some healthy ways to cope with stress (including running), so he thinks he has a shot. But his aggrieved mother (Jacki Weaver) and cautious father (Robert DeNiro), who lost his job and is moonlighting as a bookie, aren't so sure. Enter Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence), the sister-in-law of Pat's best friend. She's nursing her own wounds, having abruptly lost her cop husband and then drowning her sorrows by sleeping with everyone she knew. She wants a fresh start, too, and enlists Pat in a project that could mean turning a corner for both of them. But emotions soon get in the way, clouding their path.
Is It Any Good?
There are plenty of reasons to count your blessings if you watch SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK. The story, to start (which was adapted from Matthew Quick's novel of the same name). Offbeat and irreverent, it unfolds in a way you won't be able to predict, a gift in an industry that's propelled by far too much predictability. Casting Lawrence, DeNiro, and even Cooper (though he's not flawless) was also a stellar call.
The movie is refracted through Pat's prism, so it's sometimes jangly and bipolar. Like Pat, it's interesting, if a little abrupt in its mood shifts. And the second half is much more intense and compelling than the first half, plot-wise. Silver Linings' quirkiness is endearing, but sometimes, it feels a bit like it's straining to be different -- like it longs for the devil-may-care air of European or Australian romantic dramedies but can't quite get there. If it settled in and relaxed, it would be hard to match. As it stands, Silver Linings Playbook comes with much to recommend it, but, also like Pat, it has to work a little too hard to prove itself.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the movie portrays mental illness. Does it cast a positive or negative light on the mentally ill? How does it compare to other movies and TV shows you've seen on the topic?
Is this film a romantic comedy? Why or why not? How does it turn the genre on its head?
Talk about Pat's breakdown and return to his family. Is his re-entry into regular life believable? Why does his family put up with his eccentricities?
Are the characters admirable? Are they meant to be?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 16, 2012
- On DVD or streaming : April 30, 2013
- Cast : Bradley Cooper , Jennifer Lawrence , Robert De Niro
- Director : David O. Russell
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Weinstein Co.
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Book Characters
- Run time : 122 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language and some sexual content/nudity
- Awards : Academy Award , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Winner
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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