 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Best Player
- Nickelodeon
- Genre: Comedy
Common Sense Media says
Movie puts funny spin on relevant issues for tweens.
Parents say
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that video games are central to the plot of this made-for-TV movie, so kids who aren’t already familiar with the scope of the high-tech gaming scene may be intrigued (or confused) by what they see. The story’s intended messages are very positive, illustrating the isolating effect of virtual relationships and media obsessions and reminding kids of the dangers of valuing them over personal interaction. Tweens aren’t likely to overlook these messages, but younger kids might miss them amid the excitement of the flashy video games. Violence exists on the game plane only, as avatars duel with an array of weapons; some die in the process. All in all, this movie will appeal to tweens’ sense of humor and serves as a springboard for discussions about online safety and screen-time limits.
What's the story?
Thirty-something video game champ Quincy (Jerry Trainor) is living his version of the good life. A food-delivery guy by day, he spends his nights honing his gaming skills in his parents’ tricked-out basement. But then his parents put the house on the market and tell him he has to make other living arrangements, so he decides to enter a Black Hole gaming contest to win the money to buy the place. Unfortunately for him, the game has its own top player, a teenage girl named Chris (Jennette McCurdy), and when Quincy can’t beat her onscreen, he sets out to sabotage her in person to knock her out of the running. Little does he know that the ensuing dose of reality will alter his views on life, love, and the direction of his future.
Is it any good?
iCarly co-stars Trainor and McCurdy face off in this hilarious comedy about the great divide between virtual reality and the real world. In the gaming realm, Quincy is the untouchable idol admired by fans, but his real-life counterpart is the poster boy for poor priorities who’s oblivious to the compounding mistakes he’s made. Only after being thrown into a real-life situation does he begin to see how his actions are a detriment to his personal life, and his decision to realign his values will remind tweens of the importance of keeping theirs in a healthy balance.
BEST PLAYER is a truly enjoyable movie with talented stars and feel-good messages about honesty, maturity, and healthy relationships. Its immersion in online gaming also raises some timely issues about Internet safety and limiting screen time, so families will have plenty to talk about when it's over. There’s no reason to sweat about giving your tweens the go-ahead to watch on their own, but if you’re up for hitting the couch with them, this comedy is a good reason to do so.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about limits on screen time. Why is it important to balance media use with more traditional pastimes? What dangers exist when media like TV and Internet are overused? What are your family’s rules about media use?
How has the Internet changed the way we communicate and share information? In what ways is it a necessary tool? How can it be used in a negative manner? What dangers are associated with its use? What steps can you take to ensure your safety when you’re online?
Tweens: Are you familiar with Trainor and McCurdy’s show, iCarly? If so, did your familiarity with them make you more inclined to watch this movie? If not, did seeing this one encourage you to watch the show? How is this aspect of the movie an example of advertising?
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- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
i like it mostly but its not really that funny some mild kissing scenes and rude discipline for children
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Kid, 12 years old
March 28, 2011
AGE
Looks great!
Seen half of it and really great!
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Kid, 12 years old
March 23, 2011
AGE
Great Movie
I LOVE THIS MOVIE!!! i think its really cool that a girl rocks at a video game. When i saw the preview i made sure i would see it.
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AGE
best player
i love best players u should watch it 2
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Kid, 10 years old
March 18, 2011
AGE
Appropriate for maybe....all ages...maybe.:)
This is a good show for young ages. Just don't let them get addicted to V.games(haha). I wouldn't say this has any big problems, but the boy does say "hot" and that is only rude.
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AGE
Where did he live after he lost the game? This movie has an ending that will keep you guessing!
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AGE
A good movie for fans of iCarly!
This was a good movie with possitive messages and some good role models. There is some violence when the two main characters are playing a video game. You can see avatars fighting, breaking their heads off, etc. There is no blood. This is a good movie for tweens!
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Kid, 10 years old
March 15, 2011
AGE
Just the right thing for older kids but not for teenagers or babies!
Love it!
If you want your kids laugh and have fun, than thish is the perfect film for you!
Watch it and you rate it yourself!
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Kid, 10 years old
April 4, 2011
AGE
cool movie
I like this movie a lot. It has violence in the video game and people saying im gonna kick but or somthing two people about to kiss but it was a great movie and i like the song big night at credits!
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Kid, 11 years old
November 27, 2011
AGE
A 10 year old approved this game.
I was never really an ICarly fan until I watched this movie! I like how they used a energy drink instead of wine. I don't see how the video game can be scary, I find it really funny! I'm hoping that kids won't get TOO addicted to video games
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| TV rating: | NR |
| Network: | Nickelodeon |
| Cast: | Janet Varney, Jennette McCurdy, Jerry Trainor |
| Genre: | Comedy |
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