Common Sense Media Review
By Mieke VanderBorght
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Irritating psychological thriller has drinking, drug use.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Based on a True Story
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In BASED ON A TRUE STORY, Delphine (Emmanuelle Seigner) is a writer who's just published a hugely successful -- and highly personal -- novel. As she tries to write another book, she's overcome with impenetrable writer's block and is tormented by anonymous letters criticizing her for supposedly selling out her family in exchange for success. When Elle (Eva Green), a seemingly self-confident and sympathetic admirer comes along, the two develop an intense friendship. As Delphine spirals deeper into a funk, she hands more and more of her life over to Elle, with disastrous consequences.
Is It Any Good?
Despite a great performance by Green as the eerily overbearing "friend," this psychological thriller fails to convince. Some might be intrigued by how reality and fiction can influence and shape each other. There are also some interesting dynamics that are explored in the relationship between the two main characters in Based on a True Story. For example, to what extent does Delphine's friendship with Elle benefit her, and vice versa? And when exactly does Elle start crossing the line?
Depending on your point of view, it can be fascinating to watch as Elle worms her way into taking over Delphine's life. Or it can be excruciatingly frustrating that Delphine doesn't see the obvious as she quietly and wholeheartedly surrenders to Elle. The finale becomes even more fantastical and far-fetched, before ending with an unsatisfying conclusion.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the relationship between Delphine and Elle in Based on a True Story. What do they each get out of the friendship? What are the key ingredients to a healthy friendship?
What role do drinking and drug use play in the film? Do you think Delphine's decision-making is impacted by what she drinks and takes?
The movie is based on a novel. If you've read the novel, how does the movie compare? What about other movies based on books? How do they differ? Do you prefer to read the book before seeing the movie?
Movie Details
- In theaters : March 1, 2018
- On DVD or streaming : March 6, 2018
- Cast : Emmanuelle Seigner , Eva Green , Vincent Perez
- Director : Roman Polanski
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Sony Pictures Classics
- Genre : Thriller
- Topics : Book Characters
- Run time : 100 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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