Advice about films that kids may want to see — whatever
the rating — in theaters now or opening soon
By Katie Walsh Tribune News Service
‘STAR WARS:
THE LAST JEDI’
PG-13
What it’s about:In Episode VIII, we reconnect with the characters from “The Force Awakens” as they try to maintain their resistance against the First Order.
The kid attractor
factor:It’s “Star Wars”! Spaceships and creatures and Finn and Rey! What’s not to attract kids and teens (and the young at heart)?
Violence: Many deaths, bombings, explosions, crashes, etc. Several lightsaber fights, showdowns with heavy machinery. There is violence and death but very little gore.
Language:None.
Sexuality:A chaste kiss.
Drugs:None.
Parents advisory:Fun for older kids and teens (and parents!).
‘JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE’
PG-13
What it’s about: Four teens find themselves magically transported into the video game Jumanji, playing as their avatars. They have to complete the quest to exit the game and get back home.
The kid attractor factor: The action-adventure genre, humor and stars will draw young audiences.
Violence: Adventure violence (motorcycle chases, fights, helicopter crashes, etc.). Nothing too bloody.
Language: A few instances of strong language or swearing; nothing too extreme.
Sexuality: A few kisses, and references to flirting, sexuality, etc. One character is quite taken with an anatomical addition, which is played for laughs.
Drugs: None.
Parents advisory: A bit violent and mature for little kids, but fine for older kids and teens.
‘THE GREATEST SHOWMAN’
PG
What it’s about: A raucous pop musical about P.T. Barnum and the early days of his circus.
The kid attractor factor: The rousing tunes, as well as stars Zac Efron and Zendaya, will attract younger audiences.
Violence: Some fighting and brawling, a fire.
Language: None.
Sexuality: An extramarital kiss and suggestion of an affair, and a rather chaste romance between Efron and Zendaya.
Drugs: None.
Parents advisory: Good for kids and tweens.