Devil's Peak
Crime thriller has gun violence, drug use, strong language.
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Devil's Peak
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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 Devil's Peak is a drama/thriller about a young man who decides to go against his drug kingpin father in order to save himself and his girlfriend. There are scenes of violence, with deaths, blood, gun use, and a brief description of suicidal ideation. Other scenes show drug use (methamphetamines), smoking, and drinking, as well as some sexual content (kissing, lap dancing, a shirtless man). Strong language includes "f--k," "s--t," an exclamatory use of "Jesus Christ," and more. Hopper Penn, Billy Bob Thornton, and Robin Wright star.
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What's the Story?
DEVIL'S PEAK follows Jacob (Hopper Penn), a young man who lives with his father (Billy Bob Thornton), a local kingpin in Appalachia who resorts to violence to retain his power. Once Jacob starts a relationship and experiences a tragedy with his mother (Robin Wright), Jacob embarks on a battle against his father to end the violent cycle once and for all.
Is It Any Good?
This movie hits a lot of the beats you'd expect from a drama/thriller like this. And, to be fair, it isn't trying to do anything to subvert viewers' expectations -- it knows what it is and it does a good job of entertaining those who like seeing good characters get out of bad situations. Devil's Peak features sturdy performances by Thornton, Wright, and Jackie Earle Haley, which ground the film. You could argue that they're typecast, since it's not uncommon for Thornton, Wright, and Haley to play hardboiled characters who are ethically on the wrong side of the tracks. Penn performs well too, but it also feels like more could have been added to Jacob's characterization and arc beyond his being scared or angry. On the whole, the film gets the job done, but it doesn't add more to the conversation.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Jacob's actions in Devil's Peak. How does he demonstrate courage and integrity?
How does the violence in this movie compare to what you might see in an action or horror movie? How does that affect its impact?
How are women portrayed here? Are they well-developed?
How does the movie depict suicidal ideation? What should you do if you're worried about a friend or family member? What resources are available to help both kids and adults? (If you or someone you love is in crisis, you can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.)
Movie Details
- In theaters: February 17, 2023
- On DVD or streaming: February 24, 2023
- Cast: Billy Bob Thornton, Robin Wright, Jackie Earle Haley, Hopper Penn, Brian D'Arcy James
- Director: Ben Young
- Studio: Screen Media
- Genre: Thriller
- Character Strengths: Courage, Integrity
- Run time: 97 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: March 11, 2023
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