Parents' Guide to

The Muse

By Nell Minow, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Satire, Hollywood in-jokes won't appeal to kids.

Movie PG-13 1999 97 minutes
The Muse Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

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What's the Story?

In THE MUSE, writer/director/actor Albert Brooks portrays Steven Phillips, a Hollywood screenwriter who is let go by the studio when a young, arrogant executive tells him he has lost his "edge." On the advice of a friend, he seeks inspiration from a muse (Sharon Stone), the daughter of Zeus, who now lives in Los Angeles under the name "Sarah." Sarah does indeed work miracles for Steven, inspiring him to write a successful script. But Sarah is demanding. She insists on lavish gifts and constant attention. And she is frustrating. Steven wants her full-time dedication, but she is busy inspiring his wife to start a cookie business and Titanic writer/director James Cameron to make something other than a sequel.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

This movie's satire and Hollywood in-jokes will have little appeal to kids, but Stone's performance as the ravishing, maddening, and truly inspiring muse is wildly funny. The film can lead to family discussions about art and about relationships. Kids may also want to look up the mythological muses and talk about the costs and benefits of being inspired.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about art and about relationships. Kids may also want to look up the mythological muses and talk about the costs and benefits of being inspired.

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