Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Graphically violent thriller is unnecessarily revolting.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 17+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Vindicta
What's the Story?
In VINDICTA, a paramedic's (Elena Kampouris) first week on the job turns into a nightmare when a sadistic serial killer ends up on the loose in her service area. Uniquely trained to decipher the clues he leaves behind, she races to identify him and his motivation before he kills her and everyone she loves.
Is It Any Good?
This slasher thriller is almost camp, except it's not -- it's gore for the sake of gore, and, while it's not terribly realistic, it is terrible. In one film, former Disney Channel writer-director Sean McNamara undermines his legacy of creating wholesome entertainment for kids. Sure, the creative mind behind Soul Surfer and Spare Parts had a few quality misfires on his resume already, but parents could at least trust him. Not anymore.
Vindicta may be McNamara's attempt to try something different, and it's certainly at the other end of the spectrum from his previous high-profile projects. But it's also unnecessarily revolting and amateurishly bad. It's a shame that a beloved actor like Sean Astin is in this, but nostalgia for The Goonies or Rudy shouldn't tempt you or your teens to watch him here.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Vindicta's violence. What's the impact of the gory sequences?
What are some clichés about slasher movies? Which ones does Vindicta embrace, and which ones does it defy? How does this compare to other films in this genre that you've seen?
Director Sean McNamara was previously best known for creating movies and TV shows for tweens. Why do you think he decided to direct this film, which might be far out of his wheelhouse?
How is drug use depicted? Is it made to look appealing in any way?
While Lou is in an extreme situation, how do she and her co-workers demonstrate the courage, perseverance, and teamwork that real-life first responders demonstrate in their everyday work? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : October 6, 2023
- On DVD or streaming : October 16, 2023
- Cast : Elena Kampouris , Jeremy Piven , Sean Astin
- Director : Sean McNamara
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Paramount Pictures
- Genre : Horror
- Run time : 87 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : violence and gore, language and brief drug material
- Last updated : October 16, 2023
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