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Parents' Guide to

Being Frank

By Lynnette Nicholas, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Honest dramedy about impact of deception and lies.

Movie R 2019 109 minutes
Being Frank Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

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age 18+

Based on 1 parent review

What's the Story?

In BEING FRANK, Frank (Jim Gaffigan) appears to be a regular family man -- but then his 17-year-old son, Philip (Logan Miller), realizes that his dad has a double life. Philip is a typical teen who's trying out his young adulthood (and freedom) while completing his senior year of high school. He longs to leave his small town and go to college at NYU -- but for some reason Frank discourages him. We later discover why: Frank doesn't want Philip to find out about his secret sister, Kelly (Isabelle Phillips), who's also been accepted. On a fateful weekend during Spring Break, Philip realizes the truth. His father has a whole other family, which also includes a wife (Samantha Mathis) and a brother (Gage Banister). Armed with this newfound knowledge, Philip decides to take matters into his own hands.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

This indie comedy has a lot going on, but the overall message cleverly showcases that there are always two sides to every story. Luckily for Frank, Philip is willing to walk a mile in his father's shoes to see what life is like for his dad when he's with his other family. This film candidly depicts how a teen who's full of angst and on the brink of self-discovery finds a way to usurp authority over his controlling father, who happens to be living a lie.

Gaffigan is comedic in the lead role, yet so much is going on during the climactic scenes that the story can be a bit much to follow. And Philip's eagerness to be an accomplice in covering up Frank's lies is at times heart-wrenching to watch. It's hard to tell whether Frank is genuinely concerned for the emotional well-being of both of his families or whether he's more interested in not getting caught in the web of lies that he created. In the end, themes of honesty, sacrifice, and the impact of lies are clear. Frank eventually has to face the consequences of his choices and face up to the effect that his decisions and actions have on both of his families.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about Being Frank's subject matter. Is it timely? How do current perspectives on marriage compare to those of previous generations? What messages does the movie send about marriage and relationships?

  • How does the film depict drinking and drug use? Are there realistic consequences? Why is that important?

  • In what ways do parents' choices affect their children's lives of their children? What do the characters learn in this movie?

  • How does the character trait of selfishness affect relationships?

  • Is living a lie ever justifiable? Is honesty the best policy as it applies to family and relationships? Why or why not?

Movie Details

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