Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Absorbing tale of unique moment in history; strong language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Get on the Bus
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
GET ON THE BUS tells the story of a dozen or so African American men who in 1995 board a chartered bus to get from South Central Los Angeles to Washington, DC to participate in the Million Man March. Among the characters are a troubled father and son, an elder who missed the march on Selma, an aspiring filmmaker, a reformed gang member, an actor, and a same-sex couple. As the men get to know each other on the long trip, they explore a host of issues affecting the Black community and themselves as individuals. Will they return from the march better men than when they left?
Is It Any Good?
Thanks to a strong script and a very talented ensemble cast, this is an absorbing and thought-provoking story that captures a unique moment in American history. The large cast of characters in Get on the Bus are well developed thanks to both the writing and the abundance of charisma the actors bring to their roles. Veteran director Spike Lee takes a fluid, bouncy, sometimes grainy approach to the camera work, which helps keep the movie from feeling heavy-handed even though lots of serious issues are explored.
And while it's definitely stimulating and expresses plenty of controversial ideas, it's also full of wit and humor that keep the story moving and make the characters relatable. Adult themes, mature sexuality, and lots of strong language make it best for mature teens and up.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the positive representation of African Americans in Get on the Bus. Why is that important? Who were your favorite characters, and what were their strengths and weaknesses?
What about all the strong language? Was it realistic? Does it matter if it was or not?
Had you heard of the Million Man March before you saw this movie? What did you learn about it? How do you think it compares to the Black Lives Matter movement? Search online or use your local library as a resource to find out more.
Movie Details
- In theaters : October 16, 1996
- On DVD or streaming : January 30, 2001
- Cast : Ossie Davis , Andre Braugher , Bernie Mac , Charles S. Dutton
- Director : Spike Lee
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Director(s) , African American Movie Director(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Columbia Pictures
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Activism , Friendship , History
- Run time : 120 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : Language
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
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