Animals
By Kat Halstead,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Raunchy tale of female friendship; sex, drink, and drugs.
A Lot or a Little?
What you will—and won't—find in this movie.
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Animals
Community Reviews
There aren't any parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
In ANIMALS, best friends Laura (Holliday Grainger) and Tyler (Alia Shawkat) have always enjoyed a sense of freedom and lack of consequences throughout their friendship. But, after a decade of partying and attempting to write a novel -- the result of which averages a page a year -- Laura starts to wonder if their carefree lifestyle can continue into their 30s. When she falls for handsome pianist Jim (Fra Fee), it's a sign that priorities may need to shift and the party might be coming to an end -- an idea Tyler, it seems, will fight to the death.
Is It Any Good?
Adapted from Emma Jane Unsworth's novel of the same name, this dark comedy is a touching, funny and unflinching portrayal of female friendship. There are strong nods to the likes of Broad City and Fleabag in Animals. Transporting the story from Manchester to Dublin, with it's history of literature -- and nightlife -- works perfectly for director Sophie Hyde's richly drawn, almost dreamlike cityscape that's light with rebellious idealism, yet heavy with gritty reality. Grainger's Laura is a revelation, while Dublin's bohemian corners is a fitting home for Shawcat's troubled Tyler.
Though occasionally a little try-hard, the script is sharp and witty, and reflects the shorthand developed between the close friends beautifully. The chemistry between the two is infectious and, despite the often grim reality of their lifestyles, the movie avoids labeling or judging too harshly. These complex characters are given a compassionate space to be themselves -- raw, honest, yet still inherently lovable.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the drinking and drug taking in Animals. Do Laura and Tyler experience any consequences to their behavior? How might this differ to real life?
How is sex depicted? Do you think it's meant to be realistic or shocking? What's the difference? What values are imparted?
Discuss the friendship between Laura and Tyler. Is it a healthy relationship? What are the positive and negative aspects of their friendship?
How does the movie compare to the book? What did you think about the decision of changing the setting to Dublin? What role does Dublin play in the movie?
Discuss the other characters in the movie? Do any express strong character strengths? What and how?
Movie Details
- In theaters: August 2, 2019
- On DVD or streaming: January 6, 2020
- Cast: Holliday Grainger , Alia Shawkat , Fra Fee
- Director: Sophie Hyde
- Inclusion Information: Female directors, Female actors, Bisexual actors, Middle Eastern/North African actors, Gay actors
- Studio: Bonsai Films
- Genre: Comedy
- Topics: Book Characters , Friendship
- Run time: 109 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: June 20, 2023
Inclusion information powered by
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.
Suggest an Update
Where to Watch
Our Editors Recommend
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate