Common Sense Media Review
By S. Jhoanna Robledo
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Teens save town in action-heavy sci-fi film with retro feel.
Parents Need to Know
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Super 8
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 62 parent reviews
Parents say this movie is a blend of thrilling suspense and classic sci-fi elements that may appeal to older tweens and teens, highlighting themes of friendship and courage. While the film is engaging and beautifully executed, many parents are concerned about the frequent strong language, some drug references, and intense scenes that could be unsuitable for younger audiences.
- intense language
- suitable for teens
- strong friendships
- family themes
- scary moments
- great storytelling
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 202 kid reviews
Kids say that the film is both thrilling and intense, combining elements of horror, sci-fi, and comedy, but with a significant amount of coarse language and violence that might not be suitable for younger viewers. While many recommend it for mature audiences aged 12 and up due to its frightening imagery and strong themes, it is also praised for its special effects and emotional depth, making it enjoyable for older children and teens.
- intense scenes
- strong language
- violence and gore
- recommend for tweens
- emotional depth
- special effects
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Summer 1979, Lillian, Ohio: Six teens are making a zombie movie that they hope to submit to a festival. For Joe (Joel Courtney), it's a chance to bury himself in a project that might help him move on from his mother's recent death ... and avoid the tense existence he shares with his father, the town's deputy sheriff (Kyle Chandler). Alice (Elle Fanning), a relative newcomer to the troupe, wants a respite from the home she shares with her tortured, alcoholic father (Ron Eldard). Wannabe auteur Charles (Riley Griffiths) longs to see a finished product, and so do their three other friends. But while filming a pivotal scene, the teens witness a mysterious train crash of monumental proportions, one that unleashes a military crackdown on their once-tranquil town, as well as a newcomer of extraterrestrial proportions.
Is It Any Good?
Let's forget any attempts at originality, why don't we, because SUPER 8 won't stun with innovation. It definitely feels like an homage to great movies past, particularly E.T., Stand by Me, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. (Producer Steven Spielberg's guiding hand is definitely felt.) And the bare bones of the plot are certainly familiar, as is much of the dialogue.
Yet, Super 8 is entertaining -- despite some overly obvious grabs for viewers' heartstrings -- because the personal stories that root the action-heavy film matter to the audience. We feel for Courtney's aching Joe and Fanning's compassionate Alice. We even care for the bossy, foul-mouthed fledgling director Griffiths plays because his friendship with Joe feels grounded and true. Abrams captures the tumult of adolescence, especially when buffeted by very grown-up insights ... never mind the intergalactic space monster threatening to tear this nostalgic town to pieces.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the movie's messages about communication and peaceful negotiation. How does the movie's violence tie in to this message?
For those familiar with Spielberg's movies -- how is this an obvious homage to his films? What elements of Spielberg's movies are evident in the heroes, the story, the cinematography, the music?
How would this movie have been different if it was set in the present day? How does Abrams include '70s technology in the storyline?
Why are the kids so devoted to making Super 8 movies? What purpose does the activity serve? Do kids these days get to indulge in creative pursuits like these in the same way?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 10, 2011
- On DVD or streaming : November 22, 2011
- Cast : Elle Fanning , Joel Courtney , Kyle Chandler
- Director : J.J. Abrams
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Paramount Pictures
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Run time : 112 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence, language and some drug use
- Last updated : January 29, 2026
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