Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Redemption disability tale has language, suicide references.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Adam
What's the Story?
ADAM tells the true story of Adam Niskar (Aaron Paul), a ruthless, ambitious salesman, whose life is turned upside down when he is the victim of an accident that confines him to a wheelchair. Frustrated and angry with his predicament, with the support of his friends and family, he soon discovers there may still be enjoyment in the world yet.
Is It Any Good?
Despite being based on a true story, this is a somewhat conventional movie that follows a familiar narrative arc. Adam is burdened with its predictability, as an archetypal redemption tale told countless times before. But it does have a unique element in its depiction of those living with disabilities. They -- including central character Adam -- are flawed, and in some cases, distinctly unlikable, making for more authentic portrayals than seen in some movies.
Much of this comes down to a strong central performance from Paul, who balances a level of empathy from the viewer, while also showing off Adam's less favorable sides, giving us a well-rounded and multi-layered character. But for all the film's good, it can't shake off the feeling of being a TV movie, just lacking a little in its originality, and production value.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how disability was portrayed in Adam. Did you think it was a realistic portrayal? Why, or why not? What do you think about how people living with disabilites are portrayed in the media generally? How does it compare to real life?
Discuss the character of Adam. He is shown to be flawed and at times hard to like. Did this surprise you? Did it make him a more relatable character? He also displays courage and perseverance. Why are these such important character strengths to have?
Talk about the strong language in the movie. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
How did the movie portray sex? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
There are disabled actors in this film, but not in leading roles. Do you think these roles should have also have been given to the actors living with disabilities? How important is the visibility this film might give to the disabled community?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : May 21, 2020
- Cast : Aaron Paul , Lena Olin , Tom Berenger
- Director : Michael Uppendahl
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Vertical Entertainment
- Genre : Drama
- Run time : 100 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : sexual content, graphic nudity, and language throughout
- Last updated : February 15, 2023
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