Hot Air
By Tom Cassidy,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Ill-judged redemption tale; language, sex, addiction issues.
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Hot Air
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What's the Story?
In HOT AIR, Lionel McComb (Steve Coogan) enjoys a wealthy and lavish lifestyle, thanks to his work as a popular outspoken right-wing radio host. But when his 16-year-old niece, Tess (Taylor Russell), comes looking for a place to stay, he is forced to confront his prejudices and his own family history.
Is It Any Good?
Coogan has already proved that an opinionated, unlikable radio DJ character can be a recipe for success with his beloved comedy character Alan Partridge. In Hot Air, Coogan plays a different opinionated, unlikable radio DJ: New York based right-wing shock jock Lionel McComb. And it's a resounding failure. McComb is a toothless caricature in an out of touch movie. But the first hurdle is Coogan's accent. Originally an impressionist, Coogan's baffling inability to nail down the broadest of U.S. accents jars throughout.
Surface level problems aside -- and there are many, from distracting continuity errors to vacuous walk and talk sections down corridors to nowhere -- the story's out of date remedy kills any emotional impact. The idea that all it takes for a bigot to change their ways is to spend time with the right young, polite, and intelligent person of color is not only badly pitched but poorly executed. The brief relationship between McComb's niece, Tess, and partner Val (Neve Campbell) is a warm and likable friendship. Sadly that's the only compelling thing about this movie.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the character of Lionel McComb in Hot Air. Did he seem believable to you? Have you heard anyone in real life who resembles him? Why do you think this kind of radio presenting often finds an audience?
Discuss the strong language used in the movie. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
How did the movie portray sex? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
How well does the movie deal with issues around alcohol and drug addiction? What impact does Tess' mother's struggles have on Tess? How does she deal with it?
McComb makes a lot of fake claims on his radio show. What do you understand "fake news" to mean? Why must we be careful of it? What can be done to prevent the spread of it?
Movie Details
- In theaters: August 23, 2019
- On DVD or streaming: August 23, 2019
- Cast: Steve Coogan , Taylor Russell , Neve Campbell
- Director: Frank Coraci
- Inclusion Information: Female actors, Black actors
- Studio: Freestyle Digital Media
- Genre: Drama
- Run time: 99 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 24, 2023
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