Common Sense Media Review
By Danny Brogan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Occasionally sweary British comedy celebrates teamwork.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Swimming with Men
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In SWIMMING WITH MEN, Eric (Rob Brydon) is a middle-aged man stuck in a midlife crisis. Each day, he monotonously watches the minutes tick by at his unfulfilling accountancy job before seeking refuge at his local swimming pool. There, he meets an eclectic group of emotionally broken men who have formed an amateur synchronized swimming team. With the encouragement of swimming instructor Susan (Charlotte Riley), this dysfunctional team of misfits is persuaded to enter the World Championships in Milan. Can they overcome their personal struggles and prove that teamwork can truly defy the odds?
Is It Any Good?
This British comedy is well-meaning but lacks the belly laughs to make it memorable. Once Swimming with Men sets up its premise—a male synchronized swimming team made up of a bunch of misfits—there are no shocks or surprises, and you won't win any awards for predicting how it will play out. However, each character has enough personality that audiences will find at least one relatable, with the mischievous Tom (Thomas Turgoose) likely to be a favorite among younger viewers. With the film centered on male friendships, the only female characters—Eric's wife, Heather (Jane Horrocks), and the team's coach—are largely left on the sidelines. But by the end of the movie, there is genuine affection toward the group of merry men. Fans of The Full Monty will find similarities, though ultimately, Swimming with Men makes only a gentle ripple rather than a big splash.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the role teamwork plays in Swimming with Men. What is the most important part of being a team? Why is this an important character strength?
Talk about some of the language used. Did it seem necessary, or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
What did the movie tell us about body image? How did the characters feel about their bodies?
How did the film address worries and anxieties? Why is it good to talk about your feelings? When was a time you had to face your fears?
Why is friendship important? What can we learn from our friends? What makes a good friend?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 7, 2018
- On DVD or streaming : December 7, 2018
- Cast : Rob Brydon , Rupert Graves , Thomas Turgoose
- Director : Oliver Parker
- Studio : IFC Films
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Friendship
- Run time : 96 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate