About Alex

Movie review by Jeffrey Anderson, Common Sense Media
About Alex Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 16+

Mature ensemble drama deals with suicide, drugs.

R 2014 96 minutes
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Parents say

age 14+

Based on 1 review

Kids say

age 12+

Based on 1 review

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this movie.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that About Alex is an ensemble drama about characters in their early 30s who gather together when one of their friends attempts suicide. Though suicide is a main topic of the movie, it's not really discussed in any depth except to say that it's a bad idea. But some blood is shown in a bathroom where the character made his attempt. Language is quite strong, with words like "f--k," "bulls--t," and "a--hole" used throughout. Characters are heard having sex, and sex is discussed, though there's no nudity. Viewers see characters kissing, and occasionally characters try to kiss people who aren't their partners (these attempts are usually rebuffed). Characters also smoke pot and drink a good deal of alcohol, and some of the characters smoke cigarettes. Older teens may be interested in adopting this as their generation's The Big Chill or The Breakfast Club.

Community Reviews

Anagha1999
Anagha1999 Adult
July 5, 2018
age 14+

Simple yet Beautiful

About Alex is one of the simplest movies that you will remember. Yes, it does deal with mature topics like suicide, drugs, unplanned pregnancy and more, but it is important to know that these topics are the reality of life and this movie handles it beautifully. It stresses on friendship and how people and relationships change through the years. I absolutely enjoyed the simplicity of the movies and I truly feel that the actors did justice to their roles.

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What's the Story?

When Alex (Jason Ritter) attempts suicide, his six best friends from college rush to his side for a weekend of self-reflection, discussion, food, drugs, and drink. Ben (Nate Parker) is a struggling writer, Siri (Maggie Grace) may be pregnant, Josh (Max Greenfield) is cynical and mean, Sarah (Aubrey Plaza) is insecure but loves to cook, and Isaac (Max Minghella) has made a lot of money and is now dating the young, pretty Kate (Jane Levy). Old emotions are stirred up, and new revelations are discovered. Will the characters' friendships survive the weekend?

Is It Any Good?

ABOUT ALEX is inspiring, even if you're not of this specific generation. This film is the writing and directing debut of Jesse Zwick, the son of Oscar favorite Edward Zwick (Glory, etc.). His ensemble drama is a throwback to many other movies, notably The Big Chill and The Breakfast Club, as well as the more recent I Melt with You and 10 Years. It has enough youthful exuberance -- and naïvete -- to assume that it's saying something new. (Although, at one point, a character opines, "this is just like one of those '80s movies!")

But although About Alex doesn't really have a single fresh idea or genuine surprise, the characters actually do come to life and begin to exhibit their own amiable personalities. Actors like Plaza bring a special blend of intelligence, humor, and emotional vulnerability to their roles. Their relationships are complex, without any easy solutions, and decisions aren't easy. Yet characters continue to stumble forward, choosing hope over failure.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about About Alex's depiction of suicide. How does it affect people? Does the movie portray the consequences realistically? What can you do in real life if you have a friend who seems at risk?

  • What do you think drives these characters to drink, smoke, and use drugs? Do they seem to enjoy it? What happens as a result?

  • How do the characters view sex? What are the reasons given for characters sleeping with one another?

  • What's the appeal of an ensemble "reunion of friends" drama like About Alex? Is it easy to recognize your own relationships with friends? How are the onscreen friends different from you and your friends?

Movie Details

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