Kin – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Kin

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

movie2018

38%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A sci-fi action thriller about brothers on the run with a mysterious weapon—sounds cool, but it's mostly just confusing and forgettable.

5.8/10

36%

→

Kin

movie

PG-13, 2018

38%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A sci-fi action thriller about brothers on the run with a mysterious weapon—sounds cool, but it's mostly just confusing and forgettable.

5.8

36%

Jump to

Also rated on

5.8/10

36%

View →

Where to Watch

Loading streaming options...

Where-to-watch data byJustWatch

Screenwise Verdict

Kin had all the ingredients for a compelling sci-fi action flick—brotherly bonds, a mysterious alien weapon, otherworldly pursuers—but it fumbles the execution so badly that it's mostly just a slog. The 36% critic score and 2.7/5 Letterboxd rating tell the story: this is confusing, tonally inconsistent, and forgettable.

The violence is persistent and darker than typical PG-13 fare, which makes it inappropriate for younger kids, but the muddled plot means teens who might handle the content will probably just be bored. Multiple parent-focused reviews emphasize it's 'heavier than expected' and 'far less enjoyable than the marketing suggests.'

If your teen is desperate for sci-fi action, there are dozens of better options. Kin isn't offensively bad, but it's not worth the 90-minute investment when you could watch something that actually delivers on its premise.

Age Fit

Best for teens 13+ who are into gritty action and sci-fi, though the confusing plot and low entertainment value mean even that audience might bail halfway through. Definitely too dark and violent for preteens.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

The film centers on brotherly bonds and family loyalty, which is emotionally healthy. However, it's weighed down by a vengeful criminal storyline, violence throughout, and a generally dark tone. The relationship between the ex-con brother and adopted teen is the heart of the story, but it's wrapped in chase sequences, gunfights, and tension that doesn't model much kindness or cooperation beyond the two leads.

Imaginative

The sci-fi weapon of mysterious origin and otherworldly soldiers premise had potential, but reviews consistently note the film is confusing and fails to deliver on its creative setup. It mashes road movie, action thriller, and sci-fi without cohesion. The Letterboxd 2.7/5 and 36% RT critic score reflect a movie that squanders its imaginative premise with poor execution. It doesn't invite curiosity so much as leave viewers scratching their heads.

Safe

Rated PG-13 for gun violence, intense action, suggestive material, language, thematic elements, and drinking. Common Sense Media rates it for 13+. IMDb parents guide notes mild sexual content. This isn't Marvel-level 'safe action'—it's darker and grittier. Kids-in-Mind and Plugged In both emphasize the film is 'darker than expected' and 'heavy.' No shocking gore or nudity, but the violence is persistent and the tone is bleak enough that younger viewers could find it unsettling.

Enriching

There are themes about family, honor, and protecting loved ones, but they're buried under a confusing plot and mediocre execution. The film doesn't build meaningful skills, offer much empathy development, or leave viewers with clear takeaways. Dove.org called it 'heavy and confusing' with only 'a few satisfying, heartwarming moments.' With a 35 Metacritic and 5.8 IMDb, this isn't a film that sparks conversation or growth—it's just forgettable.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

The core relationship between an ex-con and his adopted teen brother explores loyalty and family bonds
The mysterious alien weapon and otherworldly soldiers premise had real potential for sci-fi fans
Action sequences with a futuristic weapon offer some visual interest
Themes of honor and protecting family could spark discussion about what we'd do for loved ones

⚠

What to Watch For

Persistent gun violence and intense action throughout—this isn't lighthearted superhero fare
The plot is confusing and doesn't pay off its sci-fi setup, leaving viewers frustrated
Dark, gritty tone that's heavier than the marketing suggests
Some suggestive material, language, and drinking scenes
Low ratings across the board mean even teens who like action might find this boring

Conversation Starters

"What would you do if you had to protect someone you love, even if it meant breaking the law?"
"The brothers are adopted but clearly care deeply for each other—how does family go beyond just blood relations?"
"If you found a mysterious weapon, would you use it to defend yourself or try to get rid of it?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic