Sharper
Modern noir unwinds with "con"viction; language, foreplay.
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Sharper
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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 Sharper is a neo-noir thriller about con artists working among the affluent residents of New York City. While it has iffy/mature content, not all of it sticks -- let's just say that everything isn't as it seems. One character has a heroin addiction and is shown slumped over, implying that they're high. But no actual drug use is seen, and her dependency is shown to be unacceptable and leads to getting clean. Adults also drink. A sweet romance involves kissing and some foreplay, but the camera stops before sex occurs. There's a shooting with blood and a hard slap. Strong language throughout includes "bitch," "s--t," "f--k," and more.
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What's the Story?
In SHARPER, bookstore clerk Tom (Justice Smith) invites Vassar student Sandra (Briana Middleton) to dinner, setting off a series of events that will challenge their fortitude. Their lives intersect with three affluent New Yorkers who will do whatever it takes for money, power, and love. Julianne Moore, Sebastian Stan, and John Lithgow co-star.
Is It Any Good?
Benjamin Caron's modern, twisty update on The Grifters leaves viewers with no idea of what's going to happen next. It's divided into chapters, with each of the four main characters telling their story from their point of view, without overlapping the narrative. Entering through Tom's (Justice Smith) chapter, viewers are likely to be charmed by this sweet guy who runs a bookshop and meets equally sweet grad student Sandra. As they fall in love, we fall in love with their adorable relationship. But then things take a turn, and just when you think you've got a handle on what's happening, there's another turn. And another. And another. Just like most noir films, positive messages are scant in Sharper. But it's a film that keeps you on your toes while watching and beyond.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Sharper portrays affluent people. How are wealthy characters typically depicted in entertainment? How do these characters compare?
The story includes sex and drug use, though the director uses restraint in depicting both. But characters also swear a lot. Why do you think the filmmakers made these choices? How do you think they serve -- or don't serve -- the story?
Every noir film has a femme fatale. Who is it here, and how does she hold up to the classic "dames" of the 1940s films?
How does noir compare to neo-noir? Does Sharper fit into either of these definitions? Why, or why not?
Movie Details
- In theaters: February 10, 2023
- On DVD or streaming: February 17, 2023
- Cast: Julianne Moore, Sebastian Stan, Justice Smith
- Director: Benjamin Caron
- Studio: Apple TV+
- Genre: Thriller
- Run time: 117 minutes
- MPAA rating: R
- MPAA explanation: language throughout and some sexual references
- Last updated: March 4, 2023
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