To Kill a Mockingbird
Recommended. Age: 13+. A Catholic review of this movie for parents.
Our review
A kind lawyer named Atticus defends a Black man who is blamed for a crime he did not do. His two children watch and learn about fairness and fear. It is a serious movie for older kids and grown-ups. This is one of the finest films ever made about justice and conscience. Atticus does the right thing at real cost, and he teaches his children to see the dignity of every person. The one age is 13, set by the Catholic classification A-II (Common Sense says 12). Expect racial slurs from the villain, a false rape accusation discussed in court, a lynch mob, a man shot off screen, and an attack on the children in the dark.
For parents
Best for thirteen and up, set by the Catholic classification A-II; Common Sense Media says 12. Nothing sexual is shown, but a rape accusation is at the heart of the trial, so be ready to explain it simply. The villain uses the N-word, and Scout repeats it once without knowing better. Talk about why Atticus takes a case he expects to lose. Ask: why did the jury convict a man the evidence cleared? Why did the sheriff protect Boo Radley? What does it mean to walk around in someone else's skin? Note the Black congregation's pastor, Reverend Sykes, and the people who stand as Atticus leaves.