Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Standard thriller hits familiar beats; violence, swearing.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Locksmith
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE LOCKSMITH follows Miller Graham (Ryan Phillippe), a man who committed a crime that ended with his friend dead thanks to a corrupt cop (Jeffrey Nordling) and Miller sent to jail for 10 years. After getting released, Miller tries to go on the straight and narrow for his family -- including Beth Fisher (Kate Bosworth), the mother of his daughter. But after his friend's sister, April (Gabriela Quezada), comes to him for help, Miller decides to do one last job to help her.
Is It Any Good?
In many ways, this is your standard thriller about a guy down on his luck who agrees to pursue one last score for noble reasons. You don't really expect The Locksmith to turn the tables on the narrative or bring anything especially inventive to the table. And given that perspective, it's an entertaining movie, even if you already know what will happen.
Phillippe convincingly plays a man whose mistake was exploited by someone powerful and corrupt and who wants to make a fresh start for his family after serving his time. In a supporting role, Ving Rhames tries to bring as much as he can, but ultimately his undefined, underused character ends up as stereotypical fodder for Miller's storyline. Bosworth also feels underused as Beth, Miller's love interest and a local detective. Thankfully, she's not solely defined by her relationship with Miller, but she's also not fleshed out enough to the point that we see her as more than just a stereotypical "tough" female cop who plays by the rules. If you love this type of film, then you'll like The Locksmith. But also don't expect anything out of the ordinary to happen.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Miller's decision-making in The Locksmith. What propels him to involve himself in crime? What are the consequences?
How does the violence in this movie compare to what you might see in an action film? Which has a bigger impact on you? Why?
How does Miller demonstrate courage? Why is that an important character strength?
Did you notice any positive representations in the film? Stereotypes?
Movie Details
- In theaters : February 3, 2023
- On DVD or streaming : February 3, 2023
- Cast : Ryan Phillippe , Kate Bosworth , Ving Rhames , Gabriela Quezada
- Director : Nicolas Harvard
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Screen Media
- Genre : Thriller
- Run time : 91 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : February 17, 2023
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