Common Sense Media Review
By Kat Halstead
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Intimate thriller has strong language, suicide references.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Lesson
What's the Story?
In THE LESSON, Liam (Daryl McCormack) accepts a position at the home of legendary author J.M. Sinclair (Richard E. Grant) to tutor his teenage son, Bertie (Stephen McMillan). As he settles into the family's impressive home, cracks begin to show and masks begin to slip, uncovering deadly secrets that defy fiction.
Is It Any Good?
While the setup feels familiar -- a budding writer takes a position at the home of his successful idol and gradually ingratiates himself into the family -- this British thriller never feels as formulaic as its plot may sound. Strong performances from the entire cast elevate an impressive first feature film screenplay from Alex MacKeith, while director Alice Troughton, best known for her TV work, makes a similarly strong debut into movies with The Lesson. Characters are complex and layered, scenes revealing small snippets of family life unfolding in imposing spaces behind half-closed doors. A playful score by Isobel Waller-Bridge creates a weirdly unsettling atmosphere amid the tension and oppression of the family dynamic that adds further intrigue and cements the film's distinctive tone. It's a dark affair, from which viewers may emerge as bewildered as its lead, though aware that they've borne witness to something subtly unique.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the theme of facades in The Lesson. What were different characters trying to portray to others and why? How did their true feelings and personalities reveal themselves during the film?
Grief is a theme in the film. How were the different characters grieving and how did it affect their lives and the way they interacted with others? What preventive measures can you take in order to avoid destructive behavior?
Liam shows compassion toward his student, Bertie. How did this impact Bertie's life? Why is compassion such an important character strength?
Talk about the strong language used in the movie. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
How did the movie portray sex and relationships? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
Movie Details
- In theaters : July 7, 2023
- On DVD or streaming : August 15, 2023
- Cast : Daryl McCormack , Richard E. Grant , Julie Delpy
- Director : Alice Troughton
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Black Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Bleecker Street
- Genre : Thriller
- Character Strengths : Compassion
- Run time : 102 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language and some sexual content
- Last updated : July 4, 2023
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