Common Sense Media Review
By Tom Cassidy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Army buddy cop mystery has action-style violence, language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Presidio
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In THE PRESIDIO, a military police officer is murdered on an army base. In order to try to find out who was behind the killing, civilian cop Jay Austin (Mark Harmon) must team up with his ex-nemesis on the base, Lt. Col. Alan Caldwell (Sean Connery)
Is It Any Good?
This 1988 crime-action mystery doesn't demand much and delivers a lot. The Presidio is an easy watch, mixing gorgeous widescreen 1970s-style cinematography with big, blammo '80s action. The main charm comes from the two leads. Connery and Harmon are a typical mismatched pair of detectives on the case. The duo work well together and their relationship is fun to watch play out. Connery channels his James Bond glory days when he beats up a big bar room bully using just his thumb -- the actor still bringing an imposing physicality. The movie's setting of San Francisco also looks great -- a foot chase through colorful Chinatown being a particular highlight. Throw in some steady family drama for some humanity and it all adds up to a feel-good time.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in The Presidio. Did it feel over the top? Was it disturbing or entertaining? Is a certain level of violence expected in an action movie like this?
Talk about the relationship between Caldwell and Austin. How did they learn to get over their differences? What character strengths did they display?
Talk about some of the language used. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 10, 1988
- On DVD or streaming : December 14, 1999
- Cast : Sean Connery , Mark Harmon , Meg Ryan
- Director : Peter Hyams
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Paramount Pictures
- Genre : Thriller
- Character Strengths : Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 97 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : February 27, 2024
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