Is "Good Boys" Appropriate for 14-Year-Olds? A Parent's Guide
Parents often grapple with the question of age-appropriateness when choosing movies for their teens. "Good Boys," a 2019 comedy, presents a unique challenge due to its blend of juvenile humor, pre-teen anxieties, and surprisingly mature themes. This guide will help parents decide if "Good Boys" is suitable for their 14-year-old.
Understanding the Content: More Than Just "Kids Being Kids"
"Good Boys" follows three sixth-grade boys navigating the turbulent waters of middle school, friendships, and first crushes. While the premise might sound innocent, the film contains elements that require careful consideration:
-
Crude Humor: The movie relies heavily on fart jokes, slapstick comedy, and potty humor. This is the most prominent aspect and might be off-putting or even embarrassing for some 14-year-olds, particularly those more mature for their age.
-
Sex and Sexuality: While not explicit, the film touches on adolescent sexuality in a somewhat awkward and comedic way. Conversations about kissing, girls, and physical attraction are present, though handled with a degree of innocence. However, the humor surrounding these topics could be problematic for some parents.
-
Drug and Alcohol References: There are subtle references to alcohol and its effects, though no actual consumption is depicted. This should be considered in the context of your child's maturity level and understanding of substance abuse.
-
Mild Violence: The movie features some slapstick violence and comedic mishaps, but nothing overly graphic or disturbing. The violence is generally played for laughs rather than being a central plot point.
Factors to Consider Before Showing it to Your 14-Year-Old
Before deciding, consider these factors about your specific child:
-
Maturity Level: Is your 14-year-old generally mature and able to handle potentially awkward or crude humor? Some teens might find the humor hilarious, while others may find it uncomfortable or cringe-worthy.
-
Sensitivity to Crude Humor: Does your child have a low tolerance for fart jokes, potty humor, and other such comedic styles? If so, "Good Boys" might be a poor choice.
-
Prior Movie Experience: What types of movies has your child enjoyed in the past? Has your child previously viewed movies with similar thematic elements?
-
Open Communication: Have an open conversation with your 14-year-old about the movie's content before watching it together. This allows you to gauge their expectations and address any potential concerns.
Conclusion: A Case-by-Case Decision
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether "Good Boys" is appropriate for 14-year-olds. The film's suitability depends heavily on your individual child's maturity, sensitivities, and your family's values. A thorough discussion and careful consideration of the points outlined above will guide you in making an informed decision. Consider previewing the movie yourself to gain a better understanding of its content before sharing it with your teen. Ultimately, parental guidance and open communication are crucial in navigating these types of decisions.
