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Tommy Boy (PG-13, 1995)

common sense media says

Raunchy, funny, and not for younger kids.

parents & educators say
See all 7 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that while the younger audience will like the slapstick juvenile humor, this isn't for them. A character is shown masturbating while watching an attractive woman skinny-dip. Bo Derek emerges from a swimming pool in slow motion in a tiny bikini. Beer drinking, marijuana use, and drug paraphernalia are on display without consequences.

Positive messages: Lacks educational value, but stresses the importance of family and honesty.
Violence: Mostly slapstick. The worst being when a man strike his friend in the face with a 2x4.
Sex: Farley is seen wearing scantily clad underwear, a suggestive masturbation scene.
Language: Very strong language and sexually explicit language.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Farley's character chuggs beer and smokes marijuana using a bong.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Tommy Boy

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about some of the positive social messages included in the film such as loyalty to friendships and family bonds. Parents might discuss what characteristics of Chris Farley's character are considered vices and which can be commended. Parents could highlight his allegiance to both his family and friends despite the his risky lifestyle. Another topic is the role of large vs. small businesses. Much of this movie focuses on business ethics and continuously relays a positive message about standing up for "the little people."

What's the story?

What's the story?
This simple minded, laugh-out-loud comedy begins with the sudden passing of "Big Tom" Callahan (Brian Dennehy). Callahan's family-owned brake pad business is in danger of facing its demise and eradicating the livelihood of a small town. Richard (David Spade), an obnoxious corporate underling is assigned to babysit Callahan's dimwitted maniacal son, Tommy (Chris Farley) who is set to inherit the company. In a last ditch effort to save both the company and their jobs, Richard teams up with Farley, on a raging road trip to sell a vast number of brake pads. The two find themselves in one ridiculous predicament after another, including the resurrection of a (presumed to be) dead deer.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Many have said the day Chris Farley died was the day David Spade stopped being funny, and after viewing this film, it becomes clear this is true. The movie employs the standard SNL formula of taking simplistic humor and cramming it in to an otherwise bland plot.

As any Farley (or Spade) fan knows, in this type of film, plot usually takes a back seat in favor of physical antics and notable one-liners ("fat guy in a little co-at..."). Kids will love the in-your-face comedy style of Chris Farley, but parents might find his humor to be lewd, offensive, and inappropriate for their child.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Director: Peter Segal
Cast: Chris Farley, Dan Aykroyd, David Spade
Genre: Comedy
Run time: 97 minutes
Theatrical release: March 31, 1995
DVD release: November 9, 1999
MPAA Rating: PG-13
MPAA explanation: sex-related humor, some drug content and nudity
This review was written by Alex Orner
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

mcmovie123
teen, 16 years old
12
 
common sense does not know wat there talkin about on this one.
you got to be kidding me i saw that movie when i was 9.
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Starwarsguy
kid, 10 years old
10
 
i agree with mcmovie123
i saw this when i was about four and nothing was wrong with it.
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G3
adult
 
funny
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dancing girl
kid, 12 years old
12
 
GREAT, FUNNY MOVIE!! MUST WATCH IT
I LOVE THIS MOVIE!!! It's so hilarious! I loved Chris Farley in the movie, he was really good. I must warn parents that it does contain a lot of language and drinking. Also, there is some sex-related stuff, but that's pretty much the bad stuff of it. EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH THIS MOVIE, IT'S SO GOOD AND FUNNY!
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angelostar
kid, 12 years old
13
 
really funny movie.good family comedy
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Bonky94
teen, 17 years old
 
I laughed my head off!
Chris Farley is a comedic genius. There was a few scenes that are innapropriate for my age, but, my dad cut that scene out. Language really isn't an issue, as common sense has portrayed it to be. Serves a good message of respect, trust, and determination.A must see for the family! (but not for younger children!) ♥
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rugbyrules
teen, 14 years old
12
 
Hilarious and fine if mature
Really funny. I love this movie. And yes there is a fair amount of language as long as your mature and know not to talk like that enjoy yourself watching it. There's only one scene my mom doesn't like, it when there on the boat and tells the kid he's gonna shove the oar up his @$$.
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