Parents' Guide to

Things We Lost in the Fire

By Sandie Angulo Chen, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 17+

Story of death and redemption too much for kids.

Movie R 2007 119 minutes
Things We Lost in the Fire Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

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age 15+

Based on 1 parent review

Weron
Weron Adult
May 30, 2012
age 15+

15+ !!

i watched this film and i likee itt so much, very good acting from halle berry and benicio del torro suggested to all 15 under ages..
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

Audrey Burke (Halle Berry) is grieving the senseless death of her loving, loyal, successful husband Brian (David Duchovny) when she realizes in a panic that she's forgotten to inform Brian's best friend, Jerry (Benicio Del Toro), who's a heroin junkie. It quickly becomes clear that Jerry knew and loved Brian as much as Audrey did, and she somewhat impulsively asks him to come live in her empty garage. Jerry begins to help Audrey and her family heal. In return, Audrey and her family convince Jerry to quit using -- as much for the late Brian as for Jerry himself.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1 ):
Kids say: Not yet rated

This drama is heavy on emotional impact, and not likely to appeal to kids. Danish director Susanne Bier is an internationally acclaimed filmmaker, best known for films about family crises, death, and all the tiny moments that make us all human. In THINGS WE LOST IN THE FIRE, Bier's first English-language film, she brings her decidedly European sensibilities to this drama starring A-list Hollywood actors Berry and Del Toro. Del Toro's incredible ability to modulate his intensity level, coupled with Bier's flawless way of capturing small, intimate moments, helps Things We Lost in the Fire transcend the sentimentality that can weigh down stories about loss.

Some audiences may find it hard to sit through a film without an obvious ending, but thanks to foreign-born filmmakers, American moviegoers are slowly realizing that you don't always have to have a happy ending to have a satisfying film.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about loyalty and friendship. How is Brian an example of unconditional friendship to Jerry? How does Jerry help Audrey move forward -- and vice-versa? The movie's Danish director, Susanne Bier, is known for her naturalistic, realistic style. Is it obvious that the movie wasn't made by a mainstream American filmmaker? Why or why not? How do movies and TV shows reflect the culture that produces them?

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