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Parents' Guide to

The Invention of Lying

By Renee Longstreet, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Gervais' irreverent fable isn't meant for kids.

Movie PG-13 2009 100 minutes
The Invention of Lying Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

Community Reviews

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age 12+

Based on 23 parent reviews

Aaron M.
Aaron M. Parent of 10 and 15-year-old
June 11, 2023
age 9+

Reality Enlightens

Honestly, this movie was very well written. Some call it satire. I believe it has a much deeper message. In fact, it really should become high school curriculum. Gervais, to many, hit the nail on the head when it comes to the origin of the bible and the mythology of ‘God’. Theology and evidence are leading more and more to understand that common stories with the bible, Quran, and other religious writings can be traced back to the very few educated persons who were tasked with writing stories that could satiate the common person’s answers for ‘why’. The need to have an explanation when only science exists as an answer - and for which the ability to explain and comprehend were lacking for most - caused these unwieldy tales, which became the religious writings. My 10-year old and 15-year olds, at the time, got that without me uttering a word. They debated it amongst themselves. Not odd that they came to the same outcome that I did 40 years ago. Society wants and answer for everything, and many will accept any reasoning if they believe the delivery person. Just look at Trump’s grasp on a certain segment of America. Overall, this was really good movie. It was thought provoking in a time when so few movies are.

This title has:

Educational value
Great messages
Pattyc47721
Pattyc47721 Adult
May 2, 2022
age 18+

This title has:

Great messages
See all 23 parent reviews

What's the Story?

There's no such thing as a lie or untruth in the society that writers/directors Ricky Gervais and Matthew Robinson have created in THE INVENTION OF LYING. There's not even a word for the concepts of truth or falsehood (which can only be described with difficulty as "things that aren't"). After a down-on-his-luck, lovesick, and decidedly common Mark Bellison (Gervais) accidentally tells the first lie ever, nothing is the same. It's a small lie, but it gets Mark out of a bind. The implication isn't lost on him: Truth definitely has its limitations. Bigger lies (mostly to help friends and loved ones cope with life's fears, indignities, and pain) lead Mark to fame, fortune, and a budding but ambivalent relationship with the woman of his dreams (Jennifer Garner). But to his dismay, things eventually spiral out of control as his escalating fabrications turn him into a prophet for a changed world.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (23 ):
Kids say (20 ):

This is a movie that may turn out to be richer and more fun with each viewing. Amid the clever, witty dialogue, funny situations, and sneakily amusing riffs on some of our most treasured icons (moviemaking, advertising, the good-looking guy), it's surprising to realize that The Invention of Lying isn't just another "one joke" comedy. Gervais and Robinson had more in mind: They tackled some pretty heady concepts (death, faith, religion, and more) while using a very gentle hand -- along with the humor -- to make their points ... or at least to get the audience to think about what they've seen.

The movie includes many delightful, unexpected cameo appearances (watch for Ed Norton behind aviator sunglasses), and the supporting actors (including Jonah Hill, Jeffrey Tambor, Tina Fey, and Rob Lowe) are all very funny, though not much is demanded of them beyond playing one-dimensional caricatures that serve the leads. Gervais, as expected, is terrific as the Everyman, and Garner is very impressive as a comedienne. Their scenes together are wonderful examples of good timing, good chemistry, and two people having great fun.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how the movie uses laughter to address some important ideas. Did it make you think in new ways about concepts like honesty, lying, and faith?

  • There are "bad" and "good" lies (fibs or white lies) in this film. Arethere times when you've not told the truth to avoid hurting someone? Are there times when a fib is better than the facts?

  • In the movie, much importance is placed on how people look -- and the necessity of having "beautiful children." What is the movie is saying about body image and our obsession with attractiveness?

  • How did the filmmakers convey that the story took place in a fantasy world? Did the settings, characters, and dialogue help you accept that world?

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