Common Sense Media Review
By Kat Halstead
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Heartwarming teen romcom has language, drinking.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Bonus Track
What's the Story?
In BONUS TRACK, awkward teenager George (Joe Anders) is in his final year of school, failing all his subjects and daydreaming about being a famous music star. Both he and his talent seem to go unnoticed until he meets popular new kid Max (Samuel Small), who uses his knowledge from his rock star parents to help George prep for the school talent show. But it's not just his musical world that Max helps to open up, as George starts to come out of himself and eventually plucks up the courage to come out in other ways.
Is It Any Good?
This feature debut from award-winning director Julia Jackman is a heartwarming teen romcom that sees two boys come of age by literally making sweet music together. Bonus Track garners plenty of appeal from its two likable leads, as well as The Crown star Josh O'Connor co-writing and making a cameo, and singer and LGBTQ+ activist Olly Alexander composing an original track for the film. It's funny in places, tearjerking in others, and though it follows a pretty clear formula, it's played with enough warmth and honesty that its cheesy moments -- a musical interlude near the end in particular -- stay just on the right side of embarrassing and feel well-earned enough to even be celebrated.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Bonus Track used music to structure both the relationship and the movie itself. What role did music play in George's life? What part did it play in his and Max's relationship? What did you think of the film being split into sections as though based on song titles? Can you think of other movies that center music in a similar way? How do they compare?
The film focuses on a gay teen relationship at its heart. Why is it important to see representations of different sexualities on-screen?
George and Max show communication, courage, and teamwork. Why are these important character strengths? Can you think of times you've used these in your own life, or perhaps times they may have been useful to you?
Discuss the strong language used. Did it seem necessary or excessive?
How were smoking and drinking portrayed? Were they glamorized? Why does that matter?
Movie Details
- In theaters : October 11, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : February 11, 2025
- Cast : Joe Anders , Samuel Small , Jack Davenport , Alison Sudol
- Director : Julia Jackman
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Bankside Films
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School ) , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Teamwork
- Run time : 98 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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