the boys in the boat parent guide
The Boys in the Boat⁚ A Parent’s Guide
This guide helps parents decide if “The Boys in the Boat” is suitable for their children. It covers content including language, smoking, violence, and a brief romantic scene, offering insights to aid parental decision-making before viewing.
Is “The Boys in the Boat” Appropriate for My Child?
Determining the suitability of “The Boys in the Boat” for your child hinges on their maturity level and your family’s comfort with specific content. The film, while inspiring and based on a true story, contains elements that might not be appropriate for all ages. The MPAA rating is PG-13, primarily due to instances of language and smoking. While the language isn’t excessive, its presence should be considered. The depiction of smoking might also be a concern, depending on your child’s age and understanding of the health risks associated with tobacco. Additionally, there’s a brief scene involving a kiss, representing a minor instance of romantic content. Consider your child’s sensitivity to these themes and their ability to understand the context within the overall narrative. Ultimately, a pre-screening discussion or review of parental guides can aid in making an informed decision.
MPAA Rating and Content Descriptors
The Motion Picture Association (MPAA) has rated “The Boys in the Boat” PG-13. This rating indicates that some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. Parents are urged to learn more about the film’s content before allowing their younger children to view it. The PG-13 rating specifically cites “language and smoking” as the reasons for the rating. This means there are instances of mild profanity and depictions of smoking throughout the film. While the language is not excessive and largely fits within the context of the story’s setting and characters, parental discretion is advised. The presence of smoking scenes might be a concern for parents of younger viewers or those particularly sensitive to the portrayal of tobacco use. It’s crucial to understand that the PG-13 rating doesn’t provide a comprehensive overview of all content, but highlights the aspects considered most likely to be objectionable to some parents.
Language and Smoking
Parents should be aware that “The Boys in the Boat” contains instances of mild profanity and depictions of smoking. The language used is generally consistent with the time period depicted (the 1930s) and the characters’ social backgrounds, but some viewers may still find it objectionable. The film does not contain excessive or gratuitous use of foul language; instead, the language appears to be integrated into the narrative. However, parents with particularly sensitive children might want to preview the film or consider whether it’s suitable for their child’s maturity level. Regarding smoking, the film includes scenes showing characters smoking cigarettes, a common practice during the time period portrayed. While not glorified, the presence of smoking might be a concern for some parents, especially those who actively discourage tobacco use. Parental guidance is recommended to discuss the historical context and the health risks associated with smoking, if deemed necessary.
Violence and Physical Altercations
The level of violence in “The Boys in the Boat” is minimal and largely consists of brief instances of shoving and pushing, primarily stemming from a conflict involving a derogatory nickname; These physical altercations are portrayed realistically within the context of intense competition and the emotional pressures faced by the rowing team. The violence is not graphic or overly aggressive; it serves more as a plot device to highlight the characters’ reactions under stress and their subsequent efforts at reconciliation. There are no scenes depicting significant injury or lasting physical harm. Therefore, while some mild physical conflict is present, it’s unlikely to be a major concern for most viewers. The film focuses more on the emotional and psychological challenges faced by the athletes, rather than on graphic displays of violence. Parents should still use their discretion based on their child’s sensitivity to such scenes, but the violence is largely contextual and not gratuitous.
Sexual Content
The film “The Boys in the Boat” contains a minimal amount of sexual content. There is one scene depicting a kiss between a man and a woman. This scene is brief, implied rather than explicit, and occurs within the context of a developing relationship. The focus remains on the emotional connection and not on graphic sexual detail. There is no nudity or sexually suggestive behavior beyond this single instance. The overall tone of the film emphasizes teamwork, perseverance, and the pursuit of athletic excellence. The romantic element is subtle and doesn’t dominate the narrative. Parents should consider their child’s maturity level and comfort with such scenes; however, the sexual content is not explicit or pervasive and is unlikely to be a major concern for most viewers. The film prioritizes the inspiring story of the rowing team’s journey.
Overall Themes and Messages
“The Boys in the Boat” delivers powerful and positive messages centered around teamwork, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. The film showcases the importance of collaboration and mutual support in achieving seemingly impossible goals. The rowers face significant challenges, both personal and athletic, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit and the power of collective effort. Themes of overcoming adversity and striving for one’s dreams are central to the narrative. The film also subtly explores the social and economic realities of the 1930s, offering a glimpse into a specific historical context. The emphasis on hard work, dedication, and the bonds of friendship provides a wholesome and inspiring message. The story celebrates the triumph of the human spirit through dedication and teamwork, making it suitable for family viewing despite some minor mature elements.
Considering Your Child’s Maturity Level
Evaluate your child’s maturity and comfort level with mature themes before viewing. Open communication is key to discussing potentially sensitive content and ensuring a positive viewing experience.
Understanding the PG-13 Rating
The Motion Picture Association (MPA) assigned “The Boys in the Boat” a PG-13 rating. This rating signifies that some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. Parents are urged to learn about the specific content that led to this rating to determine its suitability for their individual child. The PG-13 rating often indicates the presence of mild suggestive dialogue, thematic elements, or brief violence. While not explicitly graphic, these elements might still be unsettling or confusing for younger viewers. Consider your child’s sensitivity to such themes when making your decision. Remember that age is just one factor; maturity levels vary greatly among children of the same age. A PG-13 rating serves as a guideline, not an absolute rule. The best approach is to preview the film yourself or read detailed reviews focusing on parental concerns to make an informed decision. Prior discussion about the film’s themes with your child will further enhance their understanding and engagement with the movie’s content. Always prioritize open communication and age-appropriate discussions to ensure a suitable and enriching cinematic experience.
Dealing with Sensitive Topics
While “The Boys in the Boat” is largely a positive story of teamwork and perseverance, some scenes might require parental guidance and post-viewing discussions. The film depicts the 1930s era, which included societal norms and attitudes different from today’s. These differences might spark questions from your child about social justice, inequality, or historical context. Be prepared to address these topics openly and honestly, adapting your explanations to your child’s age and understanding. The film also includes instances of mild language and a brief depiction of smoking, which could require explanation and clarification regarding their negative health impacts. Furthermore, a scene contains a minor physical altercation stemming from name-calling, offering an opportunity to discuss conflict resolution and the importance of respectful interactions. Using the movie as a springboard, engage in conversations about empathy, understanding diverse perspectives, and the consequences of actions. The goal is not to shield children from challenging content but to equip them with the tools to process and understand it within a supportive environment.
Open Communication with Your Child
Before watching “The Boys in the Boat,” initiate a conversation about the film’s historical setting and themes. Explain that it’s a story about a rowing team striving for Olympic glory during a specific period in history. This sets the stage for understanding the context of any potentially sensitive content. After viewing, encourage your child to share their thoughts and feelings about the movie. Ask open-ended questions like, “What did you think of the team’s determination?” or “How did the characters overcome challenges?” This fosters a safe space for expressing opinions and asking questions without judgment. Listen attentively to their responses, validating their feelings and providing age-appropriate explanations for any confusing or concerning aspects of the film. If they have questions about the historical context, the social dynamics depicted, or the characters’ choices, answer them honestly and thoroughly. Remember, open communication builds trust and helps children develop critical thinking skills while processing complex themes presented in the film. This approach transforms movie-watching into a valuable learning experience.
Pre-Viewing Discussion and Post-Movie Talk
Engage in discussions before and after viewing to maximize the learning experience. Prepare your child for the film’s themes and historical context, then debrief afterwards, encouraging reflection and open dialogue.
Preparing for the Film
Before watching “The Boys in the Boat,” initiate a conversation with your child about the film’s setting—the 1930s—and the historical context of the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Explain that the movie is based on a true story about a University of Washington rowing team’s journey to compete in the games, emphasizing themes of teamwork, perseverance, and overcoming adversity. Discuss the PG-13 rating, mentioning the presence of some mild language and smoking. Prepare your child for the possibility of some intense moments reflecting the challenges faced by the team. Mention the film’s inspirational nature and its focus on the power of determination and camaraderie. This pre-viewing discussion will allow your child to watch the movie with a better understanding of its themes and narrative arc. It’s also a good opportunity to discuss expectations for behavior during the movie. Finally, emphasize the importance of paying attention to the story and characters, encouraging active viewing and engagement.
Reflecting on the Story
After watching “The Boys in the Boat,” engage your child in a discussion about the film. Begin by asking open-ended questions about their favorite parts and what resonated most with them. Explore the characters’ personalities and their individual journeys. Discuss the challenges the team faced, both on and off the water, and how they overcame those obstacles. Talk about the significance of teamwork and perseverance in achieving their goals. Ask your child to reflect on the historical context of the film and what they learned about the 1930s and the Berlin Olympics. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings about the movie’s inspirational message and the importance of pursuing dreams, even in the face of adversity. Consider discussing any scenes that were particularly impactful or emotional and the reasons behind those reactions. This post-movie conversation will facilitate critical thinking, enhance comprehension, and encourage emotional processing of the film’s themes.
Connecting the Film to Real Life
Following the movie, extend the learning experience by connecting “The Boys in the Boat” to your child’s life. Discuss the parallels between the rowers’ dedication and achieving personal goals. Explore the concept of teamwork and collaboration, drawing examples from school projects or extracurricular activities. Talk about the importance of overcoming challenges and setbacks, relating it to experiences your child might have faced. Discuss the historical context of the film, and explore similar themes of perseverance in other historical events or biographies. Encourage your child to identify role models in their own lives who exemplify dedication and teamwork. Discuss the significance of setting ambitious goals and the importance of supporting others in the pursuit of their dreams. These real-world connections will solidify the film’s message and foster a deeper understanding of its themes, encouraging your child to apply these lessons to their own life and relationships.