Common Sense Media Review
By S. Jhoanna Robledo
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Lots of lewd Sandler stuff, but also some laughs.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
You Don't Mess with the Zohan
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 11 parent reviews
Based on 35 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is a mix of outrageous humor and excessive content, with many reviewers noting its inappropriate sexual references, crude language, and comic violence, suggesting it should have received an R rating instead of PG-13. While some find it hilariously funny and entertaining, particularly for older teens, others criticize it as crass and not suitable for younger audiences.
- inappropriate content
- lacks maturity
- crass humor
- divided opinions
- entertains teen audiences
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In YOU DON'T MESS WITH THE ZOHAN, Adam Sandler takes on Arab-Jewish relations -- for real -- by playing Zohan, an Israeli super spy who's tired of the usual assassin-foiling that his job entails. ("Super spy" actually barely covers it: He can somersault off buildings, stop bullets in their tracks, and bed women -- all at the same time.) Instead of wielding machine guns, he'd rather brandish scissors and become the world's best hairstylist. A battle with his nemesis, Phantom Muchentuchen (an amusing John Turturro), gives him an opening and he bolts, leaving everyone back home thinking he's dead. A new world awaits in New York City, but Zohan's no superstar here. The high-end salons all think he's a joke, so his only option is to apprentice at a Palestinian store -- which gives Zohan pause. But nothing will stop him from making his dream come true; he sets politics aside and becomes a runaway success. But eventually his cover is blown -- plus, a real estate developer is threatening to close the salon. How will Zohan prevail?
Is It Any Good?
That Sandler's crass humor -- aided by Judd Apatow, who co-wrote the script -- could be paired with issues like world politics and gentrification is improbable, but at some level, it works.
Yes, the first half of the movie is cringe-worthy, with leaden jokes and sodden, distasteful stereotypes. The hummus punchlines, the crotch-thrusting, and the references to Zohan's enormous "package" get old quick. But some quips, particularly later in the movie, are so brazen that you have to laugh. (Retirees being serviced by an over-coiffed Zohan, who always gives his customers "happy endings"? Priceless.) By the time Phantom and Zohan face off again, you'll have been beaten into submission. And you'll be laughing.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Sandler's brand of crude humor. Clearly, the film is using exaggeration for comic effect, but do they cross the line? If so, when, and who defines what "the line" is in the first place?
Do you think Sandler needs to rely on stereotypes to arrive at his message about transcending differences in the name of happiness?
Does the crude humor take away from the movie or help it succeed?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 5, 2008
- On DVD or streaming : October 7, 2008
- Cast : Adam Sandler , Emmanuelle Chriqui , John Turturro
- Director : Dennis Dugan
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Columbia Tristar
- Genre : Comedy
- Run time : 113 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : crude and sexual content throughout, language and nudity
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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