Dog Day Afternoon

Parents need to know that Dog Day Afternoon is a vintage 1970s bank robbery drama -- based on a real event -- starring Al Pacino and containing strong language throughout with some threat. Typically for the period, social issues lie at the heart of what motivates the characters. Bank robber Sonny (Pacino) criticizes social inequality, which he claims is caused by both unbridled capitalism and controlling labor unions. His motivation for the robbery is subsequently revealed to be for compassionate reasons, rather than simply to steal money for himself. A gay, transgender character is integral to the plot. There is some discussion of this, and characters express homophobic and misogynistic views. The threat of violence is constant, but very little is shown on-screen. The bank robbers use guns to intimidate and make death threats, but they also make clear their intent to not harm anyone. Most of the on-screen violence consists of scuffles between characters, with some minor injuries sustained. There are also some instances of gunfire as the situation slowly escalates. Swearing features throughout, in the context of characters becoming angry, stressed, and anxious as Sonny and his accomplice Sal's (John Cazale) standoff with the police intensifies. Characters smoke cigarettes, partly to alleviate the stress of their situation. They also talk about drinking to manage stress. Various mental health issues are discussed in regards to drinking and prescription drug use. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails.