Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
1970s Old West adventure comedy has slapstick violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Frisco Kid
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE FRISCO KID tells the story of Polish rabbi Avram (Gene Wilder), who is selected to lead a synagogue in San Francisco. He arrives on the opposite coast and must find his way to his new congregation. But his mission is not without hiccups, as a series of dangerous misadventures threaten his journey and his life. He finds a traveling buddy in the form of bank robber Tommy (Harrison Ford).
Is It Any Good?
This irreverent, slapstick-style comedy is certainly of its time. Released in 1979, The Frisco Kid lacks any real sense of poignancy, and while there are a few laughs, it leaves you wanting more. There are also some notable problems with the film when held to today's standards. Despite Wilder's rabbi character providing space to show some Jewish cultures and tradition, there's a distinct lack of female representation, or people of color, with White actor Val Bisoglio playing a Native American chief. Ultimately it's a film that is elevated by the two actors in the leading roles. Wilder and Ford make for contrasting partners, both on and off the page. But here, their portrayal of the unlikely partnership between a rabbi and a bank robber is the film's biggest strength.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the central friendship in The Frisco Kid. How did their relationship develop despite their different backgrounds? Did it remind you of any other movies you've seen?
How was Jewish culture and tradition depicted in the movie? What role did it play in the story? Did you learn anything new?
What character strengths did Avram show? Can you think of a time in your own life when you've shown these traits?
Did you find anything problematic in the movie, such as casting or characters? How might the movie be different if it was made today?
Talk about the violence in the film. Did the comedic style make it feel less impactful? If so, why? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?
Movie Details
- In theaters : July 6, 1979
- On DVD or streaming : February 14, 2006
- Cast : Gene Wilder , Harrison Ford , Val Bisoglio
- Director : Robert Aldrich
- Studio : Warner Bros.
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Adventures , Friendship , History , Animals
- Run time : 119 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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