Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

Look, this is a perfectly fine rom-com from 2000 that tries to do something slightly different with the priest-rabbi-woman triangle. The problem? It's just... fine. Not great, not terrible, just fine.

The ratings tell the story: 68% critics, 59% audience on Rotten Tomatoes, 6.4 on IMDb. That's the definition of 'shrug emoji.' It's got some sweet moments about friendship and faith, but it's also got early-2000s pacing that drags, jokes that land with a thud, and a predictability that makes you check your phone.

For families, the age target is narrow: too mature for middle schoolers (romantic tension, sexual humor), but probably too dated and slow for most high schoolers who've been raised on tighter, snappier content. Adults looking for a gentle, undemanding watch might enjoy it, but there are better rom-coms and better faith-based films out there.

The interfaith friendship angle is genuinely nice, and if you're specifically looking for something that portrays religious life respectfully while acknowledging human complexity, this checks that box. But be honest with yourself: are you really going to sit down and watch a 25-year-old rom-com with 'meh' ratings when there are thousands of other options? Probably not.

Age Fit

Best for ages 14+ who can handle romantic themes and relationship discussions. The religious angle might spark interesting conversations for families with teens exploring faith and identity, but younger kids will be bored and the romantic content is too mature. Adults might find it mildly entertaining as background viewing, but it's not compelling enough to seek out.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

72

A romantic comedy that explores friendship, faith, and love with generally positive values. The central conflict revolves around navigating religious commitments versus romantic feelings, handled with respect and humor. Models long-term friendship and grappling with difficult life choices. Some mature themes around relationships and a few crude moments keep it from scoring higher, but overall tone is warm and emotionally healthy.

Imaginative

48

A fairly conventional romantic comedy triangle with the twist of religious vocations adding complexity. The premise of a priest and rabbi both falling for the same woman is somewhat creative, but the execution is standard rom-com formula. Doesn't particularly invite curiosity or creative thinking—it's a straightforward narrative that plays out predictably. Not boring, but not breaking new ground either.

Safe

65

Common Sense Media rates it for 13+, which aligns with its PG-13-adjacent content. Contains some sexual humor, drinking scenes, and mature relationship discussions, but no graphic content. A few crude jokes and some mild language. The religious tension could be sensitive for some families but is handled respectfully. No violence, gore, or truly shocking moments, though the romantic/sexual tension is present throughout.

Enriching

58

Offers some thoughtful exploration of balancing personal desires with religious commitments and professional identity. Shows interfaith friendship positively and explores what it means to live a life of service. However, it's primarily entertainment—a rom-com first, with these deeper themes as backdrop. Modest emotional growth for characters, some empathy-building around different faith traditions, but not particularly skill-building or intellectually challenging. Entertaining enough but not deeply meaningful.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Positive portrayal of interfaith friendship and mutual respect between religious traditions
Explores genuinely interesting tension between personal happiness and vocational commitments
Lighthearted approach to serious topics makes faith accessible without being preachy
Shows religious leaders as real people with doubts and desires, humanizing clergy

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What to Watch For

Sexual humor and romantic tension throughout—definitely not for younger kids
Some drinking scenes and bar culture references
The entire premise involves romantic/sexual attraction conflicting with religious vows
Early 2000s sensibility means some jokes and attitudes feel dated
Middling ratings across the board suggest this is background-movie material at best

Conversation Starters

"What do you think it would be like to choose between something you love and something you believe you're called to do?"
"How do you think the priest and rabbi's friendship helps them through this situation?"
"Do you think it's fair that religious leaders sometimes have to give up parts of their personal lives?"
"What would you do if you had to choose between following your heart and following rules you'd committed to?"

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