The Princess Bride
Acceptable with guidance. Age: 9+. A Catholic review of this movie for parents.
Our review
A grandfather reads a story to his sick grandson. In the story, a farm boy named Westley fights pirates, giants and a wicked prince to save Buttercup, the girl he loves. Along the way he makes two loyal friends who help him win. A funny, well-loved fairy tale that honors loyalty, courage and faithful love. It needs a parent beside it. Inigo's lifelong hunt for revenge is treated as a triumph. Buttercup plans to kill herself when she thinks love is lost. The name of Jesus is used carelessly once. Talk those through and the film is a pleasure.
For parents
PG. Common Sense Media says 9+. Decent Films says Kids & Up with a caution. Sword fights end in deaths with some blood. Westley is tortured on a machine and screams. Shrieking eels and giant rats may scare small children. Language includes 'son of a bitch' once, and the boy says 'Jesus' as an exclamation. Inigo is drunk when his friend finds him. Kisses are long but chaste, and one line mentions 'perfect breasts.' Three things to correct. First, Inigo kills the man who murdered his father, and the film cheers. Tell your children that justice belongs to lawful authority and to God, and that we are called to forgive. Second, Buttercup means to stab herself rather than live without Westley. Say clearly that life is God's gift and never ours to take. Third, the Holy Name is for prayer. Also, Inigo asks his dead father to guide his sword. Tell your children that we pray to God, and we ask the saints to pray for us. Ask: what makes Fezzik and Inigo good friends? Was Inigo happy after his revenge? Why does the grandfather read to the boy?