Mystic Pizza
Charming coming-of-age film infused with romance.
Mystic Pizza
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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 Mystic Pizza deals with adult subject matter –- sexuality, economic class issues, and infidelity. There are strong messages here about the importance of friendship and family -- and of staying true to one's self.
Community Reviews
One of my favorite 80's Rom Coms for Older Teens 15/16
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What's the Story?
Working at MYSTIC PIZZA, a pizzeria in the port town of Mystic, Conn., Daisy (Julia Roberts), Kat (Annabeth Gish), and Jojo (Lili Taylor) sling pies made with a secret sauce that seems to delight everyone -- even dour restaurant critics. It's summertime, and high school is behind them, but the future seems frightening. Will they end up doling out slices in the hardscrabble, Portuguese fishing town for the rest of their lives? The film follows the trio through a summer of change and tough decisions about life, love, and careers. By summer's end, the three friends learn new things about themselves and those they love, but their friendship and sisterhood remain intact.
Is It Any Good?
This is a funny, sweet coming-of-age movie with a charming cast, and terrific performances by Roberts, Gish and Taylor. Mystic Pizza's dated clothing, hairstyles, and music should make fine fodder for 21st-century teen ridicule -- but once they get past that, they'll enjoy it just as much as their parents did.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about embarrassment in Mystic Pizza. What kind of things make you feel embarrassed about your family -- and what do you love about it? Why are roots important?
What role does social class play in society?
How does it determine your friendships and other relationships?
Movie Details
- In theaters: October 21, 1988
- On DVD or streaming: November 13, 2001
- Cast: Annabeth Gish, Julia Roberts, Lili Taylor
- Director: Donald Petrie
- Studio: MGM/UA
- Genre: Comedy
- Run time: 105 minutes
- MPAA rating: R
- MPAA explanation: Restricted
- Last updated: August 3, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
Notting Hill
Breezy but amusing '90s romcom has sex, language.
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Runaway Bride
Cute romantic comedy OK for most older kids.
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