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Sweet November (PG-13, 2001)

common sense media says

So-so Love Story for a new generation.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that seeing Sara's health worsen is upsetting, as is the scene in which she asks Nelson to let her go. It's painful to watch Sara's young neighbor Abner anxiously look for a father figure. Sara's neighbors are transvestites. Mature themes include death and terminal illness. Occasional mild to moderate profanity. We see Nelson in bed with his girlfriend. Mentions of hookers, flashers, and dominatrixes. Nelson's ad campaign is sexually suggestive. Lots of passionate kissing, touching, and lovemaking. It's implied that Sara was promiscuous. Sara and Nelson share a bubble bath (no nudity).

Positive messages: Sara's neighbors are transvestites.
Violence: In a rage, Nelson breaks several items and cuts his hand. Sara has a fit; she throws pill vials and thrashes at Nelson. Seeing Sara's health worsen is upsetting.
Sex: We see Nelson in bed with his girlfriend, who lounges in lingerie. Mentions of hookers, flashers, and dominatrixes. Nelson's ad campaign is sexually suggestive. Lots of passionate kissing, touching, and lovemaking. It's implied that Sara was promiscuous. Sara and Nelson share a bubble bath (no nudity).
Language: Occasional mild to moderate profanity.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Some drinking.
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More on Sweet November

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about how death and dying are portrayed in films. Was Families who have experienced the dying and death of family member might compare that to the movie.

What's the story?

What's the story?
SWEET NOVEMBER revolves around beautiful Sara (Charlize Theron), who lives by the rule of having a new boyfriend for each month of the calendar. She may seem fickle, but Sara always manages to help her current boyfriend learn an important lesson or become a better person before she moves on to the next guy. In November, she begins seeing Nelson (Keanu Reeves), a ruthless businessman. Hanging out with Sara begins to have an effect on Nelson – his sharp edges soften, and he actually finds himself falling in love. But there's a reason for Sara's approach to dating – she's extremely ill.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
For teens who haven't seen Love Story or any of the other "disease-of-the-week" movies popular in the '70s, this movie will be an intensely emotional experience. Older viewers, however, are more likely to notice the movie's implausible plot--doesn't Nelson know that bad things can happen to people who spontaneously move in with strangers? A few of the movie's scenes get a little syrupy, but some much-needed humor counters the sugar shock. And, supporting characters help lighten the somber theme.

Charlize Theron proves that she can do more than decorate the screen as someone's significant other. She's goofy and carefree one moment, solemn and vulnerable the next. On the other hand, Keanu Reeves' transformation to "sensitive guy" isn't quite believable because he conveys little emotion even when saying lines such as "November is all I know or want to know."

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Warner Bros.
Director: Pat O'Connor
Cast: Charlize Theron, Keanu Reeves, Lauren Graham
Genre: Drama
Run time: 114 minutes
Theatrical release: February 16, 2001
DVD release: July 24, 2001
MPAA Rating: PG-13
MPAA explanation: sexual content and language
This review was written by Beth Pratt
 
 

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EmilyB123
teen, 15 years old
14
 
This movie was pretty good. If you like chick flicks I recommend that you watch it. For 14 yr olds and up.
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