Parents need to know that this movie contains a mild amount of profanity, much of it delivered in scenes mocking Tourette's Syndrome. The profanity is silly, with insults like "testicle head" and "barf-breathed douche mouth" predominating; nonetheless, it may be too much for some kids and parents. The movie also makes light of serious mental health issues such as paranoia and agoraphobia and features a main character who's essentially a stalker, though this is presented humorously. Some cartoonish violence occurs near the end; for instance, one character hangs explosives on another and threatens to blow him up.
Positive messages:The movie makes light of serious mental health issues and turns what's essentially stalking into situation comedy. But there are also some positive take-aways about valuing family and the importance of feeling loved and included.
Positive role models:The two main characters are both exaggerated types -- Bob is delusional, and Dr. Marvin is selfish and egotistical. Both of them learn a few things over the course of the movie, but overall they're not particularly sympathetic.
Violence:The main characters indulge in cartoonish, slapstick violence (lots of falls and the like).
Language:Several silly yet profane insults, including words like "damn," "bitch," "dick," "testicles," and "suck." Most of the language comes in scenes mocking Tourette's Syndrome.
What About Bob was a hilarious movie! There were several scenes where language was blurted out. ( if these scenes were fast-forwarded, 7+ ) One of my favorite family movies!
Amazingly funny movie, loved it so much when I was younger, still think it's hilarious today. If you're especially prudish about language I guess that could be a concern, since he pretends to have tourettes.
Bill Murray is probably one of the best movie comics of all time. He's great in this movie. Everyone, no matter the age group, will think that this movie is funny for some reason or another. The only drawback is the cursing contests between the main character and a boy. They pull out all the stops as far as curse words go. In their defense, there was no f-word, if that can be any sort of redemption. But other than that, it is a funny movie.
I'd say that this movie is appropriate for 10 and up. Weird situations, iffy language, and things that young kids wouldn't understand. Lots and lots and lots of slapstick, so just be aware. However, I did like the movie.