New on DVD: Superhero Dreams and Junior High Fears

Monday, Aug 02^nd 2010

By Rebecca Cusey

Looking for something to show the kids on DVD this week? Luckily, we have a candidate.

Kick-Ass

Super hero action movie/ spoof

The Gist: A lackluster kid wonders why no one ever does anything when they see bad things happen. He buys a superhero suit and protects the weak, which mostly ends up with him getting beaten up. A lot. Read our full review here.

The Ups: The film is gripping, shocking, and extremely well made. Also, the central theme (Why doesn't anyone do something?) is a moral question. And a good one.

The Downs: Did I mention shocking? The violence is maxed out, the language intentionally horrific, and sexual content in ramped up in that "teens always do this" way that is so prevalent nowadays. Added to all that, the most bloody and violent character is a ten-year-old girl.

The Verdict: Depends. This movie isn't for everyone and it's certainly not for kids or teens.

Be Aware: Rated R for strong, brutal violence throughout, pervasive language, sexual content, nudity, and some drug use - some involving children. IMDB Parents' Guide.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

The Gist: Greg Heffley faces the first day of Jr. High. Will he survive humiliation? Will he get the "cheese touch?" Most importantly, will he keep his friend Rowley? It's adapted from the popular books. Read our full review here.

The Ups: A delightful adaptation the book, this film turns an affectionate and humorous eye at the horror that is Junior High.

The Downs: There's not too much to complain about in this delightful movie. A few slightly naughty words earned it a PG rating.

The Verdict: Watch it with your upper elementary aged kid. If you dare.

Be Aware: Rated PG for some rude humor and language. IMDB Parents' Guide.

Read more articles by the same author:

Carell versus the cynics: Movie Review: Dinner for Schmucks

Movie Review: Charlie St. Cloud

Remembering Home: Adoped siblings return to their land of birth: Ethiopia

Rebecca Cusey

Rebecca Cusey is the official movie reviewer for SixSeeds.tv. A member of the Washington DC Area Film Critics Association and the Television Critics Association, she does celebrity interviews, reviews, trend pieces, and event coverage. Her work has appeared in USA Today, The Huffington Post, The Washington Post, Comcast.net, World Magazine, National Review Online, Relevant Magazine, Beliefnet.com, and many other outlets.

Read bio | View more articles by Rebecca

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