Caddyshack

Movie review by Common Sense Media, Common Sense Media
Caddyshack Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 17+

Classic '80s comedy; not for kids.

R 1980 130 minutes
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Parents say

age 14+

Based on 10 reviews

Kids say

age 14+

Based on 42 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this movie.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this film requires a mature viewer. Younger audiences will not understand some of the sexual references. Most are blatant, including graphic sex scenes and female nudity. Many characters use profane language. The film features several offensive jokes, one that targets African-Americans and others that use derogatory names for women. Although young teens will enjoy the "edginess" of the film, much of the humor may go over their heads.

Community Reviews

Kate C.
Kate C. Adult
November 13, 2021
age 14+

Damaging portrayals of women and sexuality

I still found this movie funny as hell. But -- beyond the sex scenes and nudity -- the portrayal of women here is damaging, unless your kids already know how to watch movies from this period with a critical eye. Of the 3 female characters, one is a foil for her rich husband, and the other 2 exist and find joy only in having sex with multiple generally unappealing men. It's pretty classic 70s/80s fare, which is all the more reason to call this out and not normalize it.

This title has:

Too much sex
Apersonthatdoesstuff ..
Apersonthatdoesstuff .. Adult
February 25, 2021
age 11+

haha

Violence 1.5/5 Sex 3/5 Language 4/5 Drinking/Drugs/Smoking 3.5/5
See all 10 parent reviews

What's the Story?

In CADDYSHACK, Ty Webb (Chevy Chase) and Al Czervik (Rodney Dangerfield) lead the charge in unmasking the seedy underbelly of the elitist, Bushwood Country Club. When nefarious club president Judge Elihu Smails (Ted Knight) schemes to convert the golf course into a property development, Webb (a man with a lifestyle and demeanor even Hugh Heffner would envy) and Czervik (an unwelcomed, uncouth member of the club) challenge Smails to an all or nothing golf tournament. Smails' "secret weapon" (screwy groundskeeper Carl Spackler [Bill Murray]) provides much of the movie's comic relief, as he attempts to take-out a crafty gopher.

Is It Any Good?

At the time of its release, no film had ever pushed the envelope of crude humor like Caddyshack. Having emerged from Saturday Night Live with incredible success, legends Bill Murray and Chevy Chase were in their comedic prime. Their ability to riff one-liners and develop side-splitting characters made Caddyshack one of the most quotable films of all time.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the vulgar and offensive nature of some of the characters. Parents will most likely highlight the negative repercussions of many of the characters' decisions, since there are few positive noteworthy actions.

  • Why does Bill Murray's character recklessly drink and smoke marijuana? How does Ted Knight's elitist nature isolate him from others?

Movie Details

Our Editors Recommend

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    age 12+
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    Ultra-raunchy sex comedy is a teen fave -- beware.

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    Old School

    Very politically incorrect; funny for many adults.

    age 17+

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