Empire State
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Empire State
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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 Empire State is a crime drama based on a true story -- with frequent strong language and intermittent violence. The movie centers around young security guard Chris Potamitis (Liam Hemsworth), who tries his best to maintain order while several attempts are made to rob his company's poorly guarded headquarters. Despite having good intentions, Chris is led into morally compromised situations. Violent scenes include various attempts to steal from Chris' employers -- some of which are foiled by Dwayne Johnson's Detective James Ransome. Characters are shot and killed, punched and kicked, and there are a number of explosions. Characters are shown living lavish and criminal lifestyles, drinking and smoking, with references to drugs -- both taking and selling. There is frequent strong language, with many uses of "f--k" and its variants, as well as "p---y," "bitch," and ableist language such as "retarded." There is some ethnic diversity, but the cast is predominantly male. More than one language is spoken on occasion, but Chris' best friend Eddie (Michael Angarano) makes flippant remarks that stereotype both Italians and Greeks.
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What's the Story?
EMPIRE STATE tells the story of young security guard Chris Potamitis (Liam Hemsworth), who gets caught up in an armed robbery with his childhood best friend, Eddie (Michael Angarano).
Is It Any Good?
Inspired by what was at the time the biggest money heist in U.S. history, this crime drama is an unfussy tale that stays grounded in its true events. However, after an intriguing setup -- and a rare case of Dwayne Johnson being cast in a secondary role -- Empire State's action both slows and becomes repetitive. The petty and deadly squabbling between the many criminal characters muddles the movie's second half in particular.
Hemsworth does a solid job as Chris, the straight man whose direction of travel is gradually dragged off course by a mix of people in need and the wrong kind of friends looking to get rich quick. But there are no standout scenes or exchanges, despite the combustible subject matter. Johnson in particular is subdued and sidelined by the material, while Emma Roberts' bit part is bizarrely elevated to featuring her on the movie's poster. The events that play out hold the attention, but much like the money at the center of the story, there's a feeling that the main prize to be had here has gone missing.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in Empire State. What impact did it have? What consequences were there? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?
Talk about some of the language used. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
Discuss Chris' moral dilemma. What perceived injustices drove him to break the law? Was he right to do this? What was the influence of his friend Eddie?
The movie is based on true events. Does that add anything to the story?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: September 3, 2013
- Cast: Liam Hemsworth, Dwayne Johnson, Emma Roberts
- Director: Dito Montiel
- Studio: Lionsgate Home Entertainment
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- Topics: History
- Run time: 94 minutes
- MPAA rating: R
- MPAA explanation: violence and pervasive language
- Last updated: October 14, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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Inside Man
Smart heist movie is not for children.
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Widows
Above-average crime drama has language, violence, sex.
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American Animals
Smart, energetic tale of attempted heist; cursing, violence.
For kids who love action thrillers
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