Common Sense Media Review
Thought-provoking story has some mature themes.
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The Truman Show
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 32 parent reviews
Parents say this film is a thought-provoking and entertaining experience, particularly commending Jim Carrey's performance in a more serious role compared to his typical comedies. While the movie contains some strong language and mature themes, many reviewers believe it offers valuable insights for family discussions and is suitable for teenagers and up, despite its PG rating.
- thought-provoking
- strong language
- family discussions
- Jim Carrey's performance
- suitable for teens
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 183 kid reviews
Kids say the movie offers a unique and captivating premise, with Jim Carrey delivering a strong performance that engages viewers as they follow Truman's journey from a fabricated life to the painful realization of his reality. Many appreciate its depth and humor, although some caution that its themes might be better understood by older children due to its philosophical implications and occasional slower pacing.
- unique concept
- engaging performances
- philosophical themes
- family-friendly
- thought-provoking content
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In THE TRUMAN SHOW, Truman Burbank (Jim Carrey) is an insurance salesman who gradually realizes that everyone around him is part of an elaborate "show" and that every aspect of his life has been orchestrated and broadcast throughout the world. Truman's "ideal" suburban community is an elaborate set, and his wife and best friend are actors. Sponsors pay for the show by having the participants praise their products. And all of it is presided over by Christof (Ed Harris), who leans into his microphone to give direction: "Cue the sun!"
Is It Any Good?
A thought-provoking story and outstanding performances (including a sensitive and subtle portrayal by Carrey) make this is a very worthwhile movie for families to watch together. Teenagers will relate to Truman's sense (correct in this case) that he is constantly being watched and that the world is organized around him.
While the satire may be above the heads of younger kids, there is still a lot to discuss. They will be interested by the fascination that Truman's "real" story has for a worldwide audience with an insatiable hunger for something to watch on television, at the same time rooting for him to find a way out and wanting him to stay so they can keep watching him.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the movie's premise. Do you watch reality TV? How did this movie seem to anticipate the onslaught of reality TV in the 21st century? How far do you think we are from such a show actually being on TV?
How is product placement satirized in this movie? Do you view product placement as a cynical attempt to manipulate an audience into buying what is shown on the screen, or do you see it as something that isn't that big of a deal so long as the movie or TV show itself is good?
How does this movie address "mediated" reality, the reality of those who spend hour after hour of their leisure time watching TV or movies -- in essence, living vicariously through people real or imagined churned out by the entertainment industry?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 5, 1998
- On DVD or streaming : January 26, 1999
- Cast : Jim Carrey , Laura Linney , Natascha McElhone
- Director : Peter Weir
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Paramount Pictures
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Adventures , Friendship , Travel
- Run time : 103 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic elements and mild language
- Last updated : February 26, 2026
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