Parents' Guide to MADE: The Movie

Movie NR 2011 83 minutes
MADE: The Movie Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

Melissa Camacho By Melissa Camacho , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 13+

Reality-inspired TV movie offers teens positive messages.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 13+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 13+

Based on 1 kid review

What's the Story?

Inspired by the popular MTV reality series MADE, MADE: THE MOVIE follows Bethanny "Tuba" Cooper (Cyrina Fiallo), an awkward, unpopular high school band member who wants to try out for the school's cheerleading squad. When her popular brother, Marshall (Brett Dier), fails to change her mind, his girlfriend/cheerleading captain Andi (Rachel Skarsten) decides to help Tuba get ready for tryouts. It isn't easy, especially when the girls' social circles reject them for working with each other. But along the way, Tuba and Andi learn a lot about each other -- and about realizing their own dreams.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say ( 1 ):

This upbeat movie highlights many of the positive themes that make MADE the series one of MTV's better offerings, including working hard to reach a goal and being brave enough to be yourself. It also points out the need to accept people's differences and the importance of friendship.

Although some of the characters who behave in iffy ways don't necessarily have to face the consequences of their actions, overall the take away is a worthwhile one. Bottom line? The movie isn't quit as good or inspiring as the series, but it offers an entertaining entry point to discuss some important issues -- including peer pressure and self-esteem -- with young teens.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the movie's messages. What is it saying about self-esteem and friendship?

  • How does the movie compare to the show? Do you like one more than the other? Why?

  • What are your family members' dreams/goals? What, if anything, is keeping you from pursuing some of them? Parents: How can you help support your kids' efforts to reach their goals?

Movie Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by

MADE: The Movie Poster Image

What to Watch Next

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate