Sense and Sensibility
Recommended. Age: 13+. A Catholic review of this movie for parents.
Our review
Two sisters lose their home and money after their father dies. Elinor keeps her feelings quiet, and Marianne shows hers to everyone. Both get their hearts broken before they find good husbands. This is a beautiful, faithful Austen film that prizes self-control, honesty and steady love over passion. Willoughby's sin is told, not shown, and it is plainly judged. The one age is 13, set by the USCCB's A-II classification. Expect romance and heartbreak, a fever scene with bloodletting, and talk of a girl left pregnant and abandoned.
For parents
Best for teens and up. The USCCB's A-II sets the age at 13; Common Sense Media says 10+ and the MPAA says PG. The film is clean, but the story of Brandon's ward needs a calm word for younger viewers. Ask: who loves better, Willoughby or Brandon? Why does Elinor keep her promise of silence even when it hurts her? Is it good to feel deeply? Yes, but feelings need to be ruled by truth and kindness. Point out Edward's faithfulness to his word, even to a woman he no longer loves.