Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Quirky generational comedy has drinking, strong language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Nana Project
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE NANA PROJECT is the story of how Nana (Mercedes Ruehl) makes it to a state chess championship with the help of her two constantly bickering grandsons, Andrew (Nolan Gould) and Cody (Will Peltz). The brothers could not be more different in personality and lifestyle, and sadly haven't gotten along in years. Staff and friends at the care facility where she lives are all rooting for Nana, too. Nana knows that family is much more important than any championship, but can she get the message across to Cody and Andrew?
Is It Any Good?
This is a quirky, multigenerational comedy that showcases how much older people have to offer the world, and drives home important points about living and aging with respect and dignity. The Nana Project's format as a faux documentary allows the actors to look directly into the camera to convey their message, which is usually in good fun but once or twice gets a little preachy. Lots of colorful, oddball characters fill the cast and provide added chuckles. A few are stereotypes worth thinking about whether or not they're harmful (the sullen teen who never speaks, the overly amorous Latino couple).
Teen appeal is mostly in the relationship between the two brothers, who are in their early and mid-20s. Older brother Cody lives the carefree, hard-partying, glamorized lifestyle of a social media influencer, but he does turn things around for himself. Strong themes include family, valuing older members of society for what they still have to give, and doing good for the community.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the strong language in The Nana Project. Is it realistic? Is it a big deal? Why, or why not?
What about the drinking? Is it glamorized? Are there consequences?
How does Andrew model humility, perseverance, and self-control? How do these character strengths help him in his life? Are Nana and Cody positive role models? Why, or why not?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : September 10, 2024
- Cast : Mercedes Ruehl , Nolan Gould , Will Peltz
- Director : Robin Givens
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Black Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Gravitas Ventures
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Character Strengths : Humility , Perseverance , Self-control
- Run time : 84 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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