The Winslow Boy
Dialogue-heavy period drama too slow for most tweens.
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The Winslow Boy
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Winslow Boy is a period drama that's almost completely chaste. An adult couple shares one passionate kiss, and there is some discussion about adults embracing romantically, but otherwise the film relies on subtle romantic tension. The pre-World War I setting references the military and the possibility of war, but only as a background element.
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What's the Story?
Based on a play, which was based on a true story, THE WINSLOW BOY is an early 20th century drama that focuses on a family's battle to clear a teenage boy's name. As a young cadet, the teen is accused of forgery and theft and expelled from his military school. But after giving his father his word that he is innocent, the family stages a years-long effort to vindicate the boy in the courts and in the media. While the legal ordeal drains the family's bank accounts and threatens its reputation -- even ruining the suffragette daughter's engagement -- the family finds a savior in a legal advocate and a potential new mate for the daughter.
Is It Any Good?
This film is a subtle study of character, and those familiar with the work of David Mamet will recognize the elaborate use of dialogue to draw out the drama inherent in the characters. While the plot is very simple, the interaction and development of the individuals is what gives the film its richness. That said, The Winslow Boy is a nuanced and rather slow-moving film that will not appeal to everyone, especially tweens and teens with a short attention span.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about honesty. In The Winslow Boy , the boy claims he is innocent of the charge against him. Have you ever been accused of something you didn't do?
How does the boy make his family believe him? Why does the family sacrifice so much just to prove the boy's innocence?
How do the characters in The Winslow Boy demonstrate integrity? Why is this an important character strength?
Movie Details
- In theaters: April 16, 1999
- On DVD or streaming: February 1, 2000
- Cast: Jeremy Northam, Nigel Hawthorne, Rebecca Pidgeon
- Director: David Mamet
- Studio: Sony Pictures
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: History
- Character Strengths: Integrity
- Run time: 110 minutes
- MPAA rating: G
- Last updated: December 18, 2022
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