Common Sense Media Review
Mature story of fate, alcohol addiction, and love.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Bounce
What's the Story?
In BOUNCE, ad executive Buddy Armaral (Ben Affleck) is a closer—a charming guy who gets the deal done. After landing a huge account for his agency, he encounters major travel delays at the airport. He impetuously gives up his boarding pass to a guy who's anxious to get back to his family, not because he's generous, but because he's hoping for a one-night stand with another stranded traveler. But Buddy's original flight crashes, and he's overcome with survivor guilt. He drinks so much that he lands in rehab. When he gets out, he looks up the widow of the man who flew on his ticket. Abby (Gwyneth Paltrow) is a struggling realtor, and Buddy tries to find redemption, despite her not knowing who he is.
Is It Any Good?
This dramatic love story is a slow burn that delivers a powerful message. Bounce makes room for characters to wrestle with the complex feelings of grief and forgiveness. While the plot twists are often predictable and obvious, the chemistry and charm of Affleck and Paltrow manage to keep it afloat.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how grief changes the characters in Bounce. What emotions do you feel after the loss of a loved one? Anger? Guilt? How can families work together to help one another through loss?
Buddy starts off using alcohol to cope with his feelings. Why would someone use drugs to navigate hard times? What are healthier options?
How is family reshaped after the loss of Abby's husband? How does Buddy fit in with her children? How does this nontraditional family make space for people to grow and become better?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 17, 2000
- On DVD or streaming : July 27, 2021
- Cast : Ben Affleck , Gwyneth Paltrow , Natasha Henstridge
- Director : Don Roos
- Inclusion Information : Gay Movie Director(s) , Queer Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Gay Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Miramax
- Genre : Drama
- Run time : 106 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : some language and sexual references
- Last updated : May 18, 2026
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate