Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is a genuinely good coming-of-age film that respects its teenage protagonist and doesn't shy away from the reality that sometimes the adults in your life are failing you. The Owen-Duncan relationship is the heart of the movie, and it's a beautiful example of how the right mentor at the right time can change a kid's trajectory.

That said, it's emotionally mature content. The boyfriend is cruel in that casual, dismissive way that's almost worse than yelling—he just methodically chips away at Duncan's self-worth. If your teen has experienced anything similar, this could be either validating or triggering depending on where they are.

The movie ultimately delivers hope and growth, but it earns it through some uncomfortable moments. It's well-made, well-acted, and has held up reasonably well since 2013—teens today will still recognize the emotional dynamics even if the lack of smartphones feels slightly dated. Worth watching with your older teen, especially if they're navigating complex family situations or struggling to find their place.

Age Fit

Best for 13-17 year olds who can handle emotionally complex family dynamics. The psychological mistreatment is realistic and uncomfortable, which is kind of the point, but younger kids might find it more distressing than enlightening.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

78

Models genuine mentorship and personal growth through the Owen-Duncan relationship. Shows a shy teen finding confidence and belonging, though the boyfriend character is intentionally emotionally abusive (as the antagonist). Balances humor with real emotional stakes about family dysfunction and self-worth. The pacing is contemplative rather than chaotic, and kindness ultimately wins out.

Imaginative

62

A well-crafted coming-of-age story with memorable characters and authentic dialogue, but it's fundamentally a realistic drama without fantastical elements or creative world-building. The water park setting provides color but doesn't invite exploration or creative expression. It's character-driven rather than concept-driven—solid storytelling but not particularly imaginative in structure or premise.

Safe

68

Common Sense Media rates it 13+. Contains some adult language, drinking by adults, and emotionally difficult scenes of a teen being belittled by his mother's boyfriend. There's some sexual innuendo and teenage romantic tension but nothing explicit. The emotional abuse is the main concern—it's realistic and uncomfortable but ultimately addressed. No graphic violence, gore, or surprise trauma beyond the family dysfunction that's central to the plot.

Enriching

81

Strong scores across the board (83% RT critics, 84% audience, 7.4 IMDb) suggest genuine quality. Tackles meaningful themes: finding your voice, recognizing toxic relationships, the impact of surrogate mentorship, and standing up for yourself. The Owen character provides a model of how adults can positively impact struggling teens. Offers real emotional insight and growth without being preachy. Genuinely entertaining while delivering substance.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Genuinely funny and heartfelt without being saccharine—the humor lands and the emotion feels earned
Shows what good mentorship looks like: Owen sees Duncan's potential and creates space for him to discover himself
Validates kids' feelings when adults are being jerks—doesn't gaslight Duncan into thinking the boyfriend's treatment is okay
Sam Rockwell's Owen is the cool adult we all wish we'd had at 14: irreverent, kind, and genuinely interested in helping
Addresses the complexity of loving a parent who's making bad relationship choices

⚠

What to Watch For

The boyfriend character is emotionally abusive—he tells Duncan he's a '3 out of 10' in the opening scene and it doesn't get better from there
Some swearing and adult drinking throughout; it's rated PG-13 territory
The mom is frustratingly passive for much of the film, which might bother kids (and definitely parents)
Romantic subplots include some age-appropriate sexual tension and innuendo

Conversation Starters

"What did you think about how Trent talked to Duncan? Have you ever had an adult make you feel small like that?"
"Why do you think Duncan's mom stayed with Trent even though he was mean to Duncan?"
"Owen became like a mentor to Duncan. Who are the adults in your life that make you feel capable?"
"How did Duncan change from the beginning to the end? What gave him the confidence to finally speak up?"

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