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Parents' Guide to

The Boy in the Plastic Bubble

By Randy White, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 9+

Worthwhile tale of adolescence and difference.

Movie NR 1976 100 minutes
The Boy in the Plastic Bubble Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Community Reviews

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age 9+

Based on 1 parent review

Julie K.
Julie K. Parent
August 23, 2021
age 9+

A sad movie

Sex 3/5 Language 1/5 Violence 2/5 Drugs alcohol and smoking 2/3
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

In this made-for-TV movie, Joe (Robert Reed) and Mary have lost several children, but give it one more try. This time their newborn's immune system isn't lethal, but the child is forced to spend his life inside a plastic bubble; any contact with the germ-laden world will bring certain death. As a teen, Todd (John Travolta) suffers typical teenage angst, coupled with his growing frustration at being confined to his plastic home. He goes to high school via closed circuit TV before devising a space suit contraption that allows him to physically attend class. He also falls for Gina, the girl next door. Initially, Gina treats Todd cruelly and uses him to cheat on school tests, but eventually, she returns his affection. Todd's growing frustration leads him to risk his life by venturing out into the world, unprotected.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

Travolta certainly attacks his part with gusto; even if this movie reeks of after-school special, his wide grin has movie star written all over it. THE BOY IN THE PLASTIC BUBBLE was a huge hit when it aired on network television in 1976, solidifying young Travolta's reputation as a mega star. The movie's fame endured, even inspiring a Seinfeld episode where the gang goes on a wacky journey to visit a bubble boy. Whatever its original goofy charm, the movie hasn't aged terribly well. One 13-year-old viewer ridiculed Travolta's performance and found the story and acting "too melodramatic."

By the movie's second half, this teen was closely following the story. She really liked the scene where Todd goes to school in his "space suit" because it was "just so embarrassing." That's the thing: Whatever its over-the-top elements, the story has an odd way of sneaking up and hooking you.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Todd adapted. Why did he finally make the decision to leave the safety of his bubble to go out into the world? What would you have done in a similar situation? How is Todd's plight similar to all teens?

Movie Details

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