Common Sense Media Review
Edgy coming-of-age story has violence, fatphobia.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
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Stand by Me
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 61 parent reviews
Parents say this film is a heartfelt coming-of-age story that explores themes of friendship, identity, and the challenges of growing up, but it comes with a significant amount of strong language and mature themes that may not be suitable for younger children. While it offers valuable lessons on vulnerability and support among friends, the overwhelming use of profanity and some intense scenes warrant caution, with many reviews suggesting it is best for mature preteens and teenagers.
- timeless themes
- strong language
- coming-of-age
- parental guidance
- age-appropriate viewing
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 229 kid reviews
Kids say this film is a beloved coming-of-age story, often praised for its realistic portrayal of friendships, although it features strong language and some mature themes. Many reviewers felt the R rating is overly harsh, arguing that its messages about loyalty and growth make it suitable for older kids, typically those aged 10 and up, as long as they are mature enough to handle the content.
- realistic friendships
- strong language
- mature themes
- feel-good story
- recommended for ages 10+
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
STAND BY ME (based on Stephen King's novella) revolves around four 12-year-old friends -- Gordie (Wil Wheaton), Chris (River Phoenix), Vern (Jerry O'Connell), and Teddy (Corey Feldman) -- who set out on a trek to find a dead body. They overcome oncoming trains, a disgusting bout with leeches, and the rival advances of a competing "gang" to collect the prize of locating the body.
Is It Any Good?
This film's brilliance ultimately lies in its all-embracing realism. Stand by Me goes to considerable lengths to identify the issues and accurately portray the pressures that lead to the disenchantment of teens everywhere. In many ways, the conclusion of the friends' quest signifies the end of innocence (or at least childhood) for them, as they're never quite the same after making their gruesome discovery.
Stand by Me accurately depicts the painful process of maturation that has plagued both teens and preteens for ages. Ultimately, the boys' unyielding sense of camaraderie and irrepressible spirit see them through towering adversity. (And the soundtrack is an all-time great.)
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why the kids in Stand by Me seek refuge in reckless behavior. Is that believable? Realistic? Even though the movie is set decades ago, do parts of it still feel relatable?
How does the movie depict the impact of death -- whether on family members, friends, or strangers? What other movies tackle similar topics?
The movie involves young characters demonstrating lots of mature behavior, including swearing, making sexual references, drinking, smoking, and more. Is that OK? Why, or why not?
How do the boys in Stand by Me Movie demonstrate teamwork and perseverance? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 1, 1986
- On DVD or streaming : March 22, 2005
- Cast : Wil Wheaton , River Phoenix , Corey Feldman , Jerry O'Connell
- Director : Rob Reiner
- Studio : Sony Pictures
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Friendship
- Character Strengths : Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 88 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language
- Last updated : April 29, 2026
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