Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Fun dramedy about world's first smartphone has swearing.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
BlackBerry
What's the Story?
BLACKBERRY follows Mike Lazaridis (Jay Baruchel) and Doug Fregin (Matt Johnson, who also directs), the inventors of the world's first smartphone. Their invention is taken to market by savvy and anger-prone exec Jim Balsillie (Glenn Howerton), which leads Mike and Doug down a path that tests their friendship -- and reveals their true goals with the company.
Is It Any Good?
BlackBerry is a funny, insightful dramedy about the smartphone that started it all. While it might start off a bit slowly (à la The Office), the film develops its own personality and sense of self the more it brings viewers into the friendship between Mike and Doug. Baruchel in particular convincingly portrays a man who started his business out of friendship and community but grows into someone who's solely focused on the bottom line. Howerton, meanwhile, expertly plays Jim as a classic yuppie who probably needs anger management. Overall, BlackBerry is one of those biopics that can fully entertain as well as inform.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how accurate they think BlackBerry is. Why might filmmakers change the facts in a movie based on a true story? How could you find out more?
Did you notice any positive diverse representations in the film? Why is it important to note when media lacks diversity?
How does the BlackBerry revolutionize the phone industry? What brings about its fall?
How does Mike and Doug's friendship evolve over the course of the film? How is it tested? How does Mike change over the course of the film? Does he change for the worse or for the better?
Movie Details
- In theaters : May 12, 2023
- On DVD or streaming : June 2, 2023
- Cast : Jay Baruchel , Glenn Howerton , Matt Johnson , Michael Ironside
- Director : Matt Johnson
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : IFC Films
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : STEM , Friendship , History
- Run time : 119 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language throughout
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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