Frequency – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Frequency

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

movie2000

68%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A ham radio connects a cop to his dead firefighter dad 30 years earlier—saving him triggers a serial killer timeline they must fix together.

70%

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Frequency

movie

PG-13, 2000

68%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A ham radio connects a cop to his dead firefighter dad 30 years earlier—saving him triggers a serial killer timeline they must fix together.

70%

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Screenwise Verdict

Frequency holds up better than most 2000-era thrillers because it leads with emotion rather than gimmick. The father-son relationship is the real draw—it's tender without being saccharine, and the time-travel mechanic serves the characters rather than overwhelming them.

That said, this isn't family movie night material. The serial-killer subplot brings genuine intensity, crime-scene photos, and violence that's moderate but present. Add frequent cursing and smoking, and you've got a clear PG-13 that earns its rating.

For teens 13+ who can handle thriller elements, this is a solid pick that offers more than just suspense—it's about consequences, sacrifice, and the messy reality of second chances. The 7.4 IMDb rating and 81% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes reflect its staying power. Just know what you're getting: a smart, emotional thriller with teeth, not a feel-good time-travel romp.

Age Fit

This is solidly 13-15+ territory. The serial-killer subplot, moderate violence, frequent profanity, and emotional weight require maturity. Younger kids will miss the nuance and may be scared by the crime elements. Teens and adults who appreciate smart thrillers with heart will find plenty to enjoy.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Strong father-son relationship at the core, emphasizing family love, sacrifice, and communication across generations. The emotional bond is genuinely moving and models healthy masculinity. However, frequent strong language (shit, hell, damn, bastard), smoking throughout, and some drinking scenes lower the wholesomeness. The pacing is solid thriller territory—not chaotic, but intense.

Imaginative

The ham-radio-as-time-travel premise is clever and original for 2000, using a grounded sci-fi concept (solar flares) to explore butterfly-effect consequences. It invites viewers to think about causality, alternate timelines, and the ripple effects of choices. Not a creative-building experience, but intellectually engaging with its 'what if' scenario.

Safe

Multiple safety concerns for younger viewers: serial-killer subplot with murder-scene photographs, gunplay, a near-strangulation struggle, and the emotional intensity of a father's death and resurrection. Frequent strong language and smoking throughout. Common Sense Media rates it 13+ for good reason—this isn't a surprise-scary situation, but it's definitely PG-13 territory with moderate violence and dark thriller elements. Not suitable for under-12s without significant parental context.

Enriching

Offers meaningful themes about consequences, responsibility, and the weight of our choices. The father-son dynamic provides emotional depth and can spark conversations about grief, regret, and protecting loved ones. Strong performances (Quaid, Caviezel) elevate the material. However, it's primarily entertainment-focused thriller territory—not deeply educational or skill-building. The moral 'be careful what you wish for' lesson lands well.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Genuinely moving father-son relationship that explores grief, regret, and second chances without being maudlin
Clever time-travel premise using ham radios and solar flares—grounded sci-fi that respects audience intelligence
Solid thriller pacing with butterfly-effect consequences that keep you engaged
Dennis Quaid and Jim Caviezel deliver strong performances that elevate the emotional stakes
Can spark real conversations about choices, consequences, and what we'd do differently if given the chance

⚠

What to Watch For

Serial-killer subplot includes murder-scene photographs and moderate violence—not graphic but intense
Frequent strong language (shit, hell, damn, bastard) and smoking throughout
Emotional intensity around a father's death may be heavy for sensitive kids
Best for early teens (13-15+) who can handle thriller elements and darker crime content

Conversation Starters

"If you could talk to someone in the past, who would it be and what would you tell them?"
"The movie shows how one small change can create huge ripple effects—can you think of a time when a small decision changed everything for you?"
"John saves his dad but accidentally creates new problems. When is it worth taking a risk even if you don't know all the consequences?"
"What do you think makes a good father-son relationship? What did you notice about how Frank and John communicate?"

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