Ebenezer (PG-13)
Age 12+
Scary moments in gothic take on Charles Dickens classic.
This adaptation of Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol” and follows the story of greedy, isolated Ebenezer Scrooge (Johnny Depp) as he’s visited by ghosts teaching him crucial life lessons. The movie, which leans into a gothic style, has some horror elements, and the ghosts may be frightening for younger kids. Expect jump scares, supernatural dread and deaths. A child is punched (resulting in a bloody nose), and an adult is stabbed in the street (with no gory details). Characters drink with dinner, at celebrations and in a bar, and occasional language includes “b—-ed” and “damn.” A child who uses crutches is portrayed as optimistic and determined but referred to as a “cripple.” Characters kiss a few times. The film makes for a solid retelling of the classic tale, with strong messages about redemption, compassion, gratitude and humility. (116 minutes)
Available in theaters.
I Play Rocky (PG-13)
Age 13+
Triumphant, inspiring showbiz story has mature moments.
Director Peter Farrelly’s biographical drama depicts how Sylvester Stallone (Anthony Ippolito) created “Rocky” and fought to play the title role. It’s an inspiring story of perseverance, and the content never gets too mature. That said, you can expect dialogue about a parent abusing a child, injuries (with some blood and bruises) and boxing scenes. A character takes a job on an adult movie; he removes his clothes for an audition, but nothing sensitive is shown. There are also images of adult theaters and sex workers on the streets, a sexual gesture, and flirting. Language includes one use of “f—,” plus “s—,” “a–hole,” “tits,” “goddamn,” “son of a b—-,” “Jesus,” “Christ,” “screw,” “freakin’,” “d–k,” “douchebag” and “hell.” Characters smoke cigarettes and drink. (128 minutes)
Available in theaters.
How to Rob a Bank (R)
Age 15+
Slick, entertaining heist thriller has guns, drugs and cursing.
This slick “eat the rich” heist thriller follows a team of social-media-savvy bank robbers aiming to create change in a system in which predatory banks take advantage of people’s desperation. While the movie’s message could serve as a warning to corporate and government leaders, the appealing cast (which includes Nicholas Hoult, Pete Davidson and Zoë Kravitz) and stylistic action make financial vigilantism look heroic. Robbing banks is depicted as easy, cool and justified, though some criminals pay a steep price. Although none of the violence gets too bloody or graphic, there are gun threats, shootouts and car crashes, plus an implied death by suicide. A law enforcement officer is repeatedly punched by rioters. A character smokes marijuana with a bong, and characters drink (including while driving). A married couple kisses passionately and falls into bed. Very strong language throughout includes “f—,” “d–k,” “s—” and “Jesus.” (122 minutes)
Available in theaters.
Doozie’s Doghouse (TV-Y)
Age 3+
Positive messages and admirable characters in colorful kids’ show.
This preschool spin-off of “Gabby’s Dollhouse” uses a mix of live action and animation in stories that feature Gabby (Laila Lockhart Kraner), her younger sister, Doozie (Celestina Harris), and a cast of animated dogs. The show is full of positive messages (especially in musical numbers) that champion creativity, compassion, curiosity, teamwork and self-confidence, and Doozie demonstrates kindness, enthusiasm and patience. The diverse show centers a multiracial character and highlights Black, Asian and Latino voice actors. Some segments come across as product placement for toys. All in all, this sweet, imaginative show is a good choice for dog-crazy preschoolers who may absorb positive lessons and get ideas for their own creative activities. (Seven episodes)
Available on Netflix.
Common Sense Media helps families make smart media choices. Go to commonsense.org for age-based and educational ratings and reviews for movies, games, apps, TV shows, websites and books.
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