Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Science + friendship = formula for fun; insults, bullying.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Popular Theory
What's the Story?
At 12 years old, highly intelligent Erwin (Sophia Reid-Gantzert) is the youngest student at Magnolia High. She's so caught up in her scientific ideas and endeavors that her family is worried that she lacks socialization. When 13-year-old chemistry whiz Winston Wilkinson (Lincoln Lambert) moves to her school, the two kids team up to win the science fair with their unique project: POPULAR THEORY, which identifies the science behind what makes some kids popular and some not.
Is It Any Good?
Mixing the two definitions of "chemistry" is an amusing catalyst to get kids to think about the relevance of science in everyday life. The chemical compound that Erwin and Winston create is far from realistic, but Popular Theory's message that friendship is more valuable in quality than quantity is pure truth—and it's something that kids need to hear as they head into the challenging middle and high school years.
That said, opportunities are missed to deliver a more meaningful message. For instance, writer-director Ali Scher shows viewers that Winston is being raised by a hoarder in challenging circumstances, but the issue is never really explored (or resolved). And the movie's plentiful STEM info is more likely to excite budding scientists who recognize the terms and name drops, rather than lead young viewers to seek out more science info for the first time. Bottom line? It's not perfect, but it is cute and entertaining, and it elevates the benefits of learning science. Popular Theory verifies that "nerds" don't need revenge—they just need the space to be themselves.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what Popular Theory's message is about the nature of popularity. Why is popularity appealing? How relevant is it to who you are and what you'll ultimately accomplish in life?
What makes someone a good friend? Why is friendship important to personal growth and happiness? Are the characters in the film good friends?
Who was Erwin Schrödinger? Why do you think the main character is named after him?
Did you notice any positive diverse representations in the movie? What about stereotypes?
Movie Details
- In theaters : February 9, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : March 26, 2024
- Cast : Sophia Reid-Gantzert , Lincoln Lambert , Cheryl Hines
- Director : Ali Scher
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Blue Fox Entertainment
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Competition , Friendship , School ( High School ) , Sports
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Teamwork
- Run time : 88 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic elements
- Last updated : September 6, 2025
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