Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Realistic gun violence in intense mass shooter crime drama.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
To Catch a Killer
What's the Story?
When Baltimore cop Eleanor Falco (Shailene Woodley) responds to a mass shooting on New Year's Eve, her astute insight and bravery capture the attention of the chief investigator, Agent Geoffrey Lammark (Ben Mendelsohn). Using her own trauma to get inside the head of the gunman, Eleanor works with a small team of FBI investigators TO CATCH A KILLER.
Is It Any Good?
The movie is well made, well acted, and intelligent, but writer-director Damián Szifron's choice to depict a mass shooting with realism feels more dangerous than helpful. Experiencing the full shock and horror as the shooting occurs seems more likely to drive fear than change. And although Szifron's approach doesn't glamorize gun violence, it still feels like it could encourage a potential shooter who might be thinking about doing something similar. The shrewd FBI investigators at times seem to express respect for the murderer's cleverness, and the villain has his opportunity to give a speech about why his actions are his solution to address the failings of the world. It's delivered in a way that seems to encourage viewers to nod along with him, which is problematic, and compassion is offered in an unexpected, controversial way. The filmmakers' intended goal may be to deter and stop mass shootings, but someone at risk of doing something violent themselves could interpret To Catch a Killer as validation.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in To Catch a Killer. Does it serve the story? How does showing it wholly and realistically impact viewers?
How are compassion and empathy demonstrated? How are these character strengths woven into the film's message? Do you think certain actions or behaviors should exclude anyone from receiving compassionate treatment?
How does Eleanor demonstrate courage, perseverance, and integrity? Why are these important character skills? Do you consider her a role model?
How are mental health and mental illness addressed in the movie, both through Eleanor and the shooter? Why is it important for someone who's suffering to feel supported in seeking help?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 21, 2023
- On DVD or streaming : July 11, 2023
- Cast : Shailene Woodley , Ben Mendelsohn , Jovan Adepo
- Director : Damián Szifron
- Inclusion Information : Latino Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Vertical Entertainment
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Empathy , Integrity , Perseverance , Self-control
- Run time : 119 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : strong violent content, and language throughout
- Last updated : May 4, 2023
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