Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Coming-of-age WWII dramedy has antisemitism, threat, sex.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Biloxi Blues
What's the Story?
BILOXI BLUES tells the story of Eugene Morris Jerome (Matthew Broderick), a young man enlisted toward the end of World War II, as he has to undertake a training course, under the intimidating guidance of the eccentric Sgt. Toomey (Christopher Walken). Though he is being primed and readied for the battlefield, Jerome is more interested in finding love, when he meets Daisy (Penelope Ann Miller) at a dance.
Is It Any Good?
This comedy drama set in a boot camp during WWII is something of a hidden gem and a film that's not spoken about enough. Based on a stage play by Neil Simon -- who is on screenwriting duty, and with autobiographical notes -- Biloxi Blues manages to explore so much yet by doing so little. In many respects, not a great deal happens, but you get such a flavor for young Jerome's journey into adulthood, as he navigates his way around is own enlisting into the United States Army. There is also a sense of the fear the young soldiers have, as the foreboding, looming sense of war, and possible death, permeates every ounce of the film. And yet it remains comedic, and relatable, and ultimately a story of a boy becoming a man, epitomized in the hilarious scene when Jerome loses his virginity. The film is well-written, subtle, and straddles the line between comedy and sadness with a delicate ease. Broderick is excellent in the leading role, too.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the threat of war loomed in Biloxi Blues. How did it impact the new recruits? What effect had it had on Sgt. Toomey? How to talk with kids about violence, crime, and war.
Some of the Jewish soldiers have antisemitic remarks made toward them from other soldiers. How do you think they would have felt hearing these things? What should you do if you hear any antisemitic or racist slurs?
How did the movie talk about sex and relationships? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
This film could be described as a coming-of-age movie. What makes a coming-of-age movie?
Movie Details
- In theaters : March 25, 1988
- On DVD or streaming : February 15, 2011
- Cast : Matthew Broderick , Christopher Walken , Penelope Ann Miller
- Director : Mike Nichols
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Universal Pictures
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity , Self-control , Teamwork
- Run time : 106 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : January 23, 2026
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