Common Sense Media Review
Mother-son drama has immigration themes; peril, language.
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Why Age 14+?
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Under the Same Moon
What's the Story?
UNDER THE SAME MOON follows the journey of 9-year-old Carlitos (Adrian Alonso) as he embarks on a perilous quest to reunite with his mom, Rosario (Kate del Castillo), who's been working without documentation as a housekeeper and nanny in Los Angeles. Along the way, Carlitos runs into scary situations -- hiding in a car to cross the U.S.-Mexico border, running from police officers, and narrowly avoiding getting snatched by human traffickers. But the boy finds help in the form of kindhearted strangers, including maternal Reyna (María Rojo) and undocumented worker Enrique (Eugenio Derbez). Will it be enough to find his way back to his mom?
Is It Any Good?
This warm family drama has very few surprises to share, but thanks to wonderful performances, it still packs a punch. Under the Same Moon tells a moving story of courage and perseverance and the lengths to which we'll go to be with loved ones. Mexican-born filmmakers Patricia Riggen and Ligiah Villalobos shine a light on the difficulties that undocumented immigrants face and remind viewers that no one would ever go through such harrowing situations unless the very well-being of their families was at stake. This film stands as a testament to the power of mother-son bonds and the human spirit.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the decisions made in Under the Same Moon. Do you agree with Rosario's choice to leave Carlitos with his grandmother so that Rosario could seek out economic opportunities for her family? Was Carlitos right, or simply reckless, in running away from Mexico to be with his mom? If you were in their situation, what would you do?
Consider the current state of the U.S.-Mexico border. How do you feel about the situation? Is anyone in the right or wrong? What would you do if your current home was unsafe or had no job opportunities and you had children to provide for? Do desperate conditions make it OK to break the law?
Which characters demonstrate courage, compassion, and/or perseverance? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : March 19, 2008
- On DVD or streaming : June 16, 2008
- Cast : Adrian Alonso , America Ferrera , Kate del Castillo
- Director : Patricia Riggen
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Latino Movie Director(s) , Mexican Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s) , Latino Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Fox Searchlight
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Perseverance
- Run time : 106 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : some mature thematic elements.
- Last updated : October 22, 2023
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