Happy Anniversary
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Happy Anniversary
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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 Happy Anniversary is a romantic comedy with lots of strong language, frank talk about sex, and a couple of sex scenes, played for comedy, that don't show any body parts. One scene does show the couple talking about what they're doing. There's no nudity except in a text-message picture that clearly shows an erect penis. Profanity includes "p---y" (name calling), "f--k" and variations, "s--t," and "bitch." Frank talk about sex mentions "pre-cum," birth control, prostitution, oral sex, and more. A few scenes show drinking. One scene shows a ground-up children's vitamin arranged in lines with a credit card to simulate cocaine. A minor character smokes once. The main characters are in their 30s, but older teens who can handle the strong material may be interested in the themes about whether you can ever be sure about your relationship, and if you're not whether you should end it or take a chance.
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What's the Story?
In HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, Sam and Mollie have been together for three years. As they start to look back at how the relationship started and where they are now, Mollie becomes less and less sure that she wants to stay in it. Her biological clock is ticking, and Sam's not showing any signs he's ready to take things to the next level. Sure, the relationship's not perfect, but is it good enough? And is good enough, well, good enough?
Is It Any Good?
This directing debut from Jared Stern has a lot of cute, and a lot of quirks, but not quite enough genuine spark to lift it up above the crowded field of romantic comedies. Stern's strength is Happy Anniversary's smart, funny script, which is no surprise given that his writing credits include a few Lego movies and Wreck-It Ralph. Both lead actors are cute in different, slightly goofy ways, but neither brings much more life than you might expect from a decent sitcom. And that's pretty much how the movie plays: like a decent TV comedy that has a few laughs and passes the time amiably enough.
Teens who are wondering about long-term relationships, how you can be sure you're with the right person, and whether or not someone's worth going all in for might enjoy this light romantic comedy, even though the couple are in their early 30s. But it's best for mature teens who can handle the adult situations, strong language, and frank sex talk.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the sexual content in Happy Anniversary. Does it seem realistic? How much is OK to show in movies, TV, or other media?
How much strong language is OK in movies? Is it a big deal? Why or why not?
What other romantic comedies have you seen? Which are your favorites? How does this one compare?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: March 30, 2018
- Cast: Noel Wells, Ben Schwartz
- Director: Jared Stern
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Romance
- Topics: Friendship
- Run time: 78 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: June 3, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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The Incredible Jessica James
Crisp, star-driven romcom has sexual content, cursing.
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Scrubs
Goofy medical comedy with heart; for older teens.
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When Harry Met Sally
Wit- and charm-filled romantic-comedy classic.
For kids who love romcoms
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