Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is the kind of movie that sticks with you—a tender, authentic coming-of-age story that treats its characters and themes with real care. The 95% audience score isn't a fluke; people connect with this story about two teens figuring out who they are and what they mean to each other.

It's not flashy or fast-paced, and the 1987 setting means it unfolds in a different cultural moment around LGBTQ+ identity. But that's part of what makes it enriching—it offers both representation and historical context, showing how far we've come while acknowledging how hard the journey still is.

The 'difficult road to self-discovery' language is real—expect some emotional intensity, family tension, and the challenges of coming out in a less accepting era. It's rated 13+ for good reason, and it's best for teens (or adults) ready for something introspective rather than escapist.

If your teen is into character-driven stories, loves books like the source material, or is navigating their own identity questions, this is a beautiful, empathy-building watch. Just know it's a feelings movie, not a plot movie.

Age Fit

Best for ages 13+ who are ready for emotionally complex, character-driven storytelling about identity and sexuality. This isn't a light teen rom-com—it's introspective and sometimes heavy, but deeply rewarding for teens (and adults) ready to engage with those themes.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

82

A tender coming-of-age story about friendship, family, and self-discovery set in 1987 El Paso. The 95% RT audience score and strong critical reception (88% critics) suggest emotionally resonant, age-appropriate storytelling that models meaningful connection. The focus on two Mexican-American teens navigating identity and friendship demonstrates kindness and emotional depth, though the 'difficult road to self-discovery' hints at some heavier emotional moments.

Imaginative

68

Based on a beloved YA novel, this is a character-driven drama rather than a visually imaginative or fantastical story. The 'secrets of the universe' is metaphorical—about identity and connection—not literal world-building. The 1987 period setting offers some nostalgic texture, but this is fundamentally a realistic, introspective narrative. Strong on emotional exploration but not particularly inventive in form or structure. Letterboxd's 3.2/5 suggests solid but not groundbreaking execution.

Safe

71

Common Sense Media rates this 13+, which aligns with teen coming-of-age content. The story involves LGBTQ+ themes and identity exploration, which is enriching but may be emotionally intense for younger viewers. No MPAA rating provided, but the source material and 'difficult road' language suggest some challenging emotional content—likely including homophobia, family tension, or identity struggles. No indication of graphic violence, sex, or gore, but definitely not a light watch for young kids who might stumble upon it.

Enriching

85

This is precisely the kind of story that builds empathy and insight. A Mexican-American coming-of-age narrative in the 1980s offers cultural representation, historical context, and exploration of identity, sexuality, and friendship. The high audience score (95%) suggests it resonates emotionally and delivers meaningful takeaways. Strong potential for discussions about identity, acceptance, family dynamics, and what it means to truly know yourself and others.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Authentic LGBTQ+ representation in a coming-of-age story that's earned a 95% audience score—people genuinely love this
Centers Mexican-American identity and family dynamics in the 1980s, offering cultural depth often missing from teen movies
Character-driven and emotionally intelligent—the kind of story that helps teens (and adults) think about identity, acceptance, and what real friendship looks like
Based on a celebrated YA novel, so the bones of the story are strong and resonant

⚠

What to Watch For

This deals with coming out, homophobia, and the 'difficult road to self-discovery'—emotionally intense moments that require some maturity
It's a slow-burn, introspective drama, not an action-packed teen movie—some kids will find it moving, others might find it slow
1987 setting means no smartphones, different cultural context around LGBTQ+ identity—good for historical perspective but may feel distant to some viewers

Conversation Starters

"What do you think made Aristotle and Dante's friendship so special? What makes a friendship feel safe enough to be yourself?"
"How do you think it felt for LGBTQ+ teens in the 1980s compared to now? What's changed and what's still hard?"
"The movie is about discovering 'secrets of the universe'—what do you think that means? What are you still figuring out about yourself?"
"How did their families react to who they were becoming? What would you want your family to know about you?"

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Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe