Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

Lady Bird is that rare coming-of-age film that feels like it was made by someone who actually remembers what being 17 was like—awkward, earnest, cruel, hopeful, all at once. It's not a teen movie in the sanitized Disney+ sense; it's got sex, swearing, and teenagers making legitimately bad choices.

But here's the thing: it's also one of the most insightful films about the mother-daughter relationship you'll find, and it treats its Sacramento setting and working-class family with genuine respect and specificity. The Safety score tanks it for younger viewers, but for older teens who are actually navigating these waters? This could be genuinely valuable viewing.

The WISE score of 68 reflects that tension: it's enriching and well-crafted, but the R-rated content means it's not for the general Screenwise audience. If you've got a 16-17 year old, especially one heading toward college or dealing with complicated family dynamics, this could be the rare movie that actually sparks a real conversation. Just don't expect it to be comfortable—the best parts are where it gets messy.

Age Fit

This is really for older high schoolers (16+) and adults. Younger teens might connect with the themes but the R-rated content is genuinely present throughout, not just a one-off scene.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

72

Lady Bird portrays a realistic, sometimes painful mother-daughter relationship with emotional depth and authenticity. The film models genuine conflict resolution and shows family members who love each other despite friction. However, the protagonist can be selfish and hurtful at times (which is realistic for a 17-year-old but not always modeling ideal behavior). The pacing is thoughtful and the tone is balanced between comedy and drama, avoiding sensationalism.

Imaginative

78

Greta Gerwig's directorial debut brought a fresh, distinctive voice to the coming-of-age genre with specific, authentic details about Sacramento, Catholic school life, and teenage identity formation. The film invites viewers to see the ordinary as extraordinary and encourages reflection on how we construct our identities. While not fantasy-driven imagination, it demonstrates creative storytelling and original perspective on familiar themes.

Safe

45

Lady Bird is R-rated territory (though MPAA rating not provided in data, this is widely known). Contains sexual content including a teenage sex scene, strong language throughout, underage drinking, marijuana use, and mature themes around class, identity, and family conflict. A parent character struggles with depression. This is not content that would be appropriate for a young child to stumble upon unexpectedly. The content serves the story but definitively requires parental guidance.

Enriching

88

Exceptionally enriching for the right age group. Explores complex themes of identity formation, mother-daughter relationships, class consciousness, friendship dynamics, first love, and the tension between wanting to escape home while also loving it. Offers genuine insight into the teenage experience and invites empathy for both the protagonist and her mother. The film has sparked countless meaningful conversations about family, gratitude, and growing up. TMDB rating of 7.3 suggests strong audience appreciation.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

One of the most authentic portrayals of the mother-daughter relationship on film—messy, loving, infuriating, and real
Tackles class consciousness and economic anxiety in a way that feels honest rather than preachy
Shows a flawed protagonist who makes mistakes and learns from them (eventually)
Beautifully captures the bittersweet feeling of wanting to leave home while simultaneously loving it
Could spark genuinely meaningful conversations between parents and older teens about identity, gratitude, and family

⚠

What to Watch For

R-rated content throughout: sex scene (not graphic but present), consistent strong language, marijuana and alcohol use by teens
The protagonist is often self-centered and makes hurtful choices—she's realistic, not aspirational
Themes of depression and economic stress might hit close to home for some families
Some Catholic school content and religious themes that frame the story

Conversation Starters

"Do you think Lady Bird appreciated her mom by the end? What changed?"
"Have you ever felt embarrassed about where you're from or wanted to be from somewhere else?"
"Lady Bird lies about where she lives and her family's money situation. Why do you think she did that?"
"What do you think the movie is saying about the difference between wanting something and actually being ready for it?"
"The mom works double shifts and is dealing with a lot. How do you think that affected their relationship?"

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