Parents' Guide to

Celeste and Jesse Forever

By S. Jhoanna Robledo, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 16+

Talky hipster romcom explores the "perfect" divorce.

Movie R 2012 91 minutes
Celeste and Jesse Forever Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

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What's the Story?

Married thirtysomethings Celeste (Rashida Jones) and Jesse (Andy Samberg) have been together since high school, but their paths are diverging: Celeste's trend-forecasting business is blowing up, while Jesse, an artist, has no steady income. As Celeste points out, he doesn't even own dress shoes or have a checking account. They decide to take the "grown-up" route and separate, with an amicable divorce on the horizon. Instead of being a couple, they'll be best friends, with her living in their old house and him in the studio out back. But it's all much easier said than done, especially when a woman Jesse sleeps with once, Veronica (Rebecca Dayan), winds up pregnant. Off to the dating pool Celeste goes, but not without reservations. Plus, her new account managing a pop star (Emma Roberts) is a nightmare.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Such promise, such potential; that's what CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER has, but it doesn't deliver, at least not completely. With such an interesting premise and strong leads, you'd think it would be a win, but it lacks momentum and energy. You feel bad for Celeste and Jesse and their dilemma -- they do still care about each other a lot -- but you sort of only care a little.

And it's mildly disappointing when Celeste goes through the obligatory meltdown phase, eating too much, drinking too much, messing up at work, and falling apart. (Must women always be shown gorging post-break-up?) Bottom line? It has its moments, but this one won't be remembered forever.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Celeste and Jesse Forever handles the theme of romance. Is it saying anything different than other romcoms? Does it rely on stereotypes?

  • Do you think Celeste and Jesse's situation is realistic? Is their "solution" manageable?

  • Parents, talk to your kids about your own values regarding sex and relationships.

Movie Details

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