Common Sense Media Review
By Danny Brogan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Coming-of-age comedy has language, underage drinking, pot.
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Boy
What's the Story?
Set in 1984, BOY tells the story of 11-year-old Boy (James Rolleston), who lives with his grandmother, brother, and cousins in rural New Zealand. Boy tells elaborate tales about his absentee father, Alamein (Taika Waititi), who Boy says will return home and take him to see Michael Jackson in concert. When his father—who has actually been in prison—does return in search of some money he buried, Boy is given the chance to get to know him for real.
Is It Any Good?
Written, directed by, and starring Waititi, this is a touching New Zealand coming-of-age dramedy about Māori life. Boy—originally released in 2010—was Waititi's second film. But such is the honesty, realism, and humor on display that it's little surprise he's now one of Hollywood's most sought-after filmmakers. The movie also gives Waititi a chance to demonstrate his acting credentials. His portrayal as the hapless Alamein is equal parts hilarious, infuriating, and ridiculous. But it's the debut performance from Rolleston in the title role that deserves the most praise. So expertly does he articulate Boy's highs—and then lows, when he begins to see his father for what he really is—that it's hard to believe that not only is this the young actor's first role, but also that he was cast just two days before shooting began.
The New Zealand scenery is beautiful, but the film doesn't shy away from the hardships this Māori community faces. Poverty, lack of opportunity, and—though never graphically depicted—violence are all in play. But so are love, friendship, and family, albeit not in the conventional sense. This is a beautiful, heartwarming film that will remind anyone older of a time when they, too, were trying to make sense of the world.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the relationship between father and son in Boy. How does the way Boy sees Alamein change throughout the movie? Why do you think Boy tells his friends lies about his father? Do you think Alamein cares about his son?
The movie is set in a Māori community with an unusual family setup. Why is it important to see such diversity on-screen? Perhaps you come from a Māori background, or know someone who does. What do you know about Māori culture?
Discuss the strong language used in the movie. Did it seem necessary, or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
How does the film depict underage drinking, smoking, and drug use? Are they glamorized? What are the consequences? Why is that important?
Boy and his brother Rocky show empathy and curiosity during the film. Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : March 2, 2012
- On DVD or streaming : July 9, 2013
- Cast : James Rolleston , Te Aho Eketone-Whitu , Taika Waititi
- Director : Taika Waititi
- Inclusion Information : Indigenous Movie Director(s) , Polynesian/Pacific Islander Movie Director(s) , Indigenous Movie Actor(s) , Polynesian/Pacific Islander Movie Actor(s) , Indigenous Movie Writer(s) , Polynesian/Pacific Islander Movie Writer(s)
- Studios : Unison Films , Paladin
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Empathy
- Run time : 87 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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