Parents' Guide to

Doubt

By S. Jhoanna Robledo, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 17+

Brooding, play-based drama isn't for kids.

Movie PG-13 2008 104 minutes
Doubt Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

Community Reviews

age 14+

Based on 8 parent reviews

age 15+

Average.

I thought it was an okay movie, but a little dull and somewhat slow. The concept is excellent (set in the 60's) and the actors were great (Loving Amy Adams!) however it isn't something that I'd watch again. Kids and some teens may not be interested as the theme is kind of complex - no sex, not much violence and very mild language. I'd say it's safe for 15+ viewers!
age 16+

Good for older teens, but iffy for younger teens and not for kids

This was a great movie. There was nothing graphic shown or talked about, but the theme of child molestation is for more mature teens. The movie's theme about whether to act on gut feelings versus factual evidence was thought provoking and a good message. It also showed how acting on gut suspicion can lead to consequences effecting other peoples lives. Meryl Streep was awesome as the strict and unemotional nun. I think my 16 yr old daughter will enjoy this and it will be something for her to think about. I don't think my 13 year old son would enjoy it - it's a bit slow for him.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (8):
Kids say (14):

Often, adapting a play of this magnitude for the big screen gives birth to disappointment, but Doubt survives as an engrossing, provocative drama. On Broadway, John Patrick Shanley's DOUBT, winner of both the Pulitzer Prize and a Tony Award, riveted audiences with its unremitting scrutiny of faith and its worthy adversary: uncertainty.

Yes, there's a heavy handedness to the direction that's better suited to the stage. There are also far too many portentous elemental triggers (the wind-spun leaves, lashing rain, dreary skies -- we get the message, the end is bleak). And the usually excellent Adams is only passable here. Still, you can't deny the powerful themes Doubt dares to take on: Is it true, as Father Flynn says, that doubt can be "a bond as powerful and sustaining as certainty"? Or is it, by its very nature, bad for the faithful? The film may not answer all of these questions mightily, but at least it tries.

Movie Details

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