Common Sense Media Review
By S. Jhoanna Robledo
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Powerful queer coming-of-age film has language, homophobia.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Pariah
What's the Story?
In PARIAH, after leaving for school every day, Alike (Adepero Oduye)—a high school senior in New York—changes out of the traditionally feminine clothes her mother (Kim Wayans) buys for her so she can become more of who she is. She prefers a gender non-conforming style, but her environment doesn't allow her to be open about that—or about being a lesbian. As a result, Alike doesn't know how to go about finding a girlfriend. Her best friend, Laura (Pernell Walker), thinks a strip club might be the answer; meanwhile, her mother forces her to walk to school with a more "suitable" church friend, Bina (Aasha Davis). But Bina intrigues Alike more than her mother might be comfortable with ... and the feeling is mutual.
Is It Any Good?
This brave, heart-wrenching movie captures the struggles of girls like Alike eloquently. So there are definitely plenty of reasons to see Pariah. That said, be prepared for a film that could leave you depressed (it's so intense that it can be exhausting). It's also somewhat predictable. The script paints the big picture but relies on unoriginal plot standbys, such as parents in denial and nurturing teachers who offer outlets to struggling teen leads.
Once you have a grasp of Alike's troubles, you can almost see the resolutions coming. That's a pity, because the acting here is stunning. Still, flaws and all, Pariah has a powerful message, and it's exciting to root for Alike throughout.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Alike's situation in Pariah. What are some of the things she's exploring about herself, and what is she afraid of? What aspects of her journey are universal, and which are more specific to her situation?
How does Pariah portray the difficulties of living at odds with your parents' views or expectations? Should you have to conform to your family's expectations?
The film's central characters are all Black, and the three teens at the heart of the story are all exploring same-sex relationships. Why is it important to show the stories of underrepresented groups on screen? How might a movie like this help a teen who's struggling with something similar?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 28, 2011
- On DVD or streaming : April 24, 2012
- Cast : Aasha Davis , Adepero Oduye , Pernell Walker
- Director : Dee Rees
- Studio : Focus Features
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School )
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : sexual content and language
- Awards : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Winner , NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : September 10, 2026
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