Parents' Guide to

12 Angry Men

By M. Faust, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Outstanding Henry Fonda jury classic is still relevant.

Movie NR 1957 95 minutes
12 Angry Men Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

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age 11+

Based on 10 parent reviews

xxxrodrigoxxx
xxxrodrigoxxx Adult
July 9, 2019
age 8+

Required viewing to understand this crazy world we live in

Young kids will likely be bored to tears by this movie - and even older ones probably will be, too. If they can handle a whole movie of just talking, without any action or flashiness, and really appreciate the genius of the screenwriting, the fantastic performances and the direction by Sidney Lumet, this movie is required viewing. It is one of the most American films ever made, crucial to understand the pulse of the country in this and any age. The characters are timeless and the message is enough to give anyone hope, even in the darkest of times. Hopefully, this film will inspire kids who watch it to be the Juror #8 in their life. I cannot give this movie enough praise - your kids, on the other hand, may sleep through it.

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
1 person found this helpful.
Chris U.
Chris U. Adult
March 3, 2019
age 10+

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
1 person found this helpful.
See all 10 parent reviews

What's the Story?

12 ANGRY MEN creates a mesmerizing drama out of an event that takes place many times every day throughout the United States: A man is tried by a jury of his peers. "Nice bunch of guys, huh?" one juror remarks sarcastically after a particularly heated argument. The juror, played by Henry Fonda, replies, "They're about the same as anyone else." That observation is central to the film, which shows the deliberation of a murder trial where a young Puerto Rican man is accused of killing his father.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (10):
Kids say (34):

Though this is an older film, its examination of the jury system is as valid as ever, and it may be even more important today when media sensationalism has such a strong effect on public perceptions. The movie stresses that the most crucial issue is not whether the jurors think the accused is guilty but, according to the law, whether that has been proven "beyond a reasonable doubt."

Henry Fonda, perfectly cast in 12 Angry Men as a man who values reason, leads a troupe of familiar character actors in a movie that makes a virtue out of its cramped setting. Fonda is one of the great movie stars who will be discovered afresh by new generations.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about confusing aspects of the legal system and the complex topic of prejudice in 12 Angry Men. How timely are these issues now? Give some examples.

  • Explore the idea of being tried by a "jury of your peers," since it's easy for kids to assume that peers are people who are similar to the accused in nearly every way.

  • Why do you think this film is considered a classic? Does it stand the test of time?

  • How does Henry Fonda's juror in 12 Angry Men demonstrate communication and integrity? Why are these important character strengths?

Movie Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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