Common Sense Media Review
So-so coming-of-age military flick; not for kids.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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An Officer and a Gentleman
What's the Story?
In AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN, Zack Mayo's (Richard Gere) mother commits suicide, and he's left to be raised by his drunken philandering soldier father. Unfortunately, Zach's dad treats him more like a drinking buddy than a son. After college graduation, Zack follows in his father's footsteps by enlisting in the Navy's flight school. The majority of the film chronicles Zack's time in basic training -- the friends he meets, the battles he fights, the mistakes he makes, his inability to fully commit to girlfriend Paula (Debra Winger), and the father figure he finds in Sgt. Foley (Louis Gossett Jr.).
Is It Any Good?
At the heart of this passable drama is a boys-becoming-men theme, as well as father-son relationships, be they in the form of an alcoholic parent or an intimidating drill sergeant. Herein lays the film's most problematic message -- that physical intimidation, psychological bullying, and outright degradation are okay in the frame of military service.
In this equation, women are depicted very poorly. Paula and Lynette are painted as trashy, scheming girls on the make. They try to entice soldiers into sex, marriage, and commitment against their will. The vulgar language, sexual overtones, and predatory nature of these relationships make this film too intense for young viewers. At the same time, families who watch this together could discuss these behaviors -- and how they relate to both men and women in the military.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the relationships that Zack has with his father and with Sgt. Foley. Who do you think he looked up to more? Is Zack treated fairly by Sgt. Foley? Families could talk about the depiction of female characters in the movie. How are Paula, Lynette, and Seeger portrayed differently? Why did Seeger have a hard time in the military? How is she different than both Paula and Lynette?
Movie Details
- In theaters : July 28, 1982
- On DVD or streaming : December 12, 2003
- Cast : David Keith , Debra Winger , Richard Gere
- Director : Taylor Hackford
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Paramount Pictures
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Competition , Family Stories ( Dads ) , Holidays ( Father's Day ) , Friendship , Transportation ( Planes ) , Sports , History ( War: WWII )
- Run time : 124 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language and nudity
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Winner
- Last updated : September 5, 2025
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