You know, it was a welcome treat to see a film about this seminal event that isn't about the event. The Jewish mother from hell, the "good" son and the gentle dad were all unlikely heroes at a time when peace was a lifestyle and people thought music could save the world. Not bad messages. Having said that you realize why everyone hates hippies. The only reason why this is rated R is because of the frontal nudity. I'd let my teen see it with the caveat that casual drug use isn't fun and games. There are some real casualties from that time in history. Some of them sleep in the park not far from our house.
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Taking Woodstock
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Is it age appropriate?
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Not age appropriate for kids under 15, age appropriate for kids over 18; suggested age 15. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Dramedy revisits famous festival, complete with drugs, sex.
Themes in this movie include: family relationships, growing up
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 15–18
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What Parents Need to Know
About Taking Woodstock
Parents need to know that this R-rated Ang Lee dramedy about the backstory behind the famous Woodstock festival is quite accurate in depicting the time period and the event itself -- in other words, there's plenty of drug use (pot, acid, etc.), nudity, and more. Since it stars comedian Demetri Martin, expect teens to be interested. But the topic and tone are definitely more geared toward adults.
Read our full review by S. Jhoanna Robledo
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about the era depicted in the movie. What was it about Woodstock that attracted the younger generation? Was the event itself a tipping point for change, or was it emblematic of change already under way?
- Teens: Do you think the movie is an accurate presentation of what it was like to be at Woodstock? What do you think would happen at a similar event today, especially if drug use and sex were as rampant?
- Why does Elliot help his parents even though his mother doesn’t seem to appreciate it? Or, if she does, why can’t she let him know? What makes him persist?
Our Members Say
Most Recent Reviews
- I rate this title on for age 15 and give itMy concerns are:
- Drinking, smoking, or drug use
Not much happens but it's fun nonetheless
- I rate this title off for age 17 and give it
Negative 5 stars
My husband and I had a rare date night last night and chose to spend it with dinner and a movie "Taking Woodstock". While the dinner was great, the movie was most unpalatable. Unless you're are interested in seeing a movie about a concert... that never shows the concert... or a movie about a homosexual nerdy Jewish guy who walks around basically the whole time making completely random conversation with people and a few less than par kissing scenes... or a movie where a Vietnam Veteran suffering from obvious post-traumatic stress syndrome suddens flashes back to reality just in time to slide down a muddy hill... (total anti-climax).. Then I don't recommend you seeing this film. Negative 5 stars in my opionion.
- I rate this title on for age 14 and give itMy concerns are:
- Drinking, smoking, or drug use
- I rate this title on for age 16 and give it
Great movie for teens and above
I loved this movie. It's one of my favorite movies of all time. Would be OK with teens seeing it, but wouldn't want my 11 year old to view it.
- I rate this title on for age 17 and give itMy concerns are:
- Inappropriate sexual content
- Inappropriate language
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Ratings at a Glance
| 50% | of parents say there's too much drinking, drugs, or smoking |
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