Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Romcom has lots of frank sex talk, strong language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Happy Anniversary
Parent and Kid Reviews
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
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s) , Middle Eastern/North African Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Netflix
- Genre : Romance
- Topics : Friendship
- Run time : 78 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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