'ELVIS'
Rated PG-13 for substance abuse, strong language, suggestive material and smoking.
What it’s about: A wild, manic, chopped-and-screwed biopic of the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
The kid attractor factor: The musical element, and perhaps star Austin Butler will draw younger audiences.
Good lessons/bad lessons: Capitalism and fame are a combination destined to chew you up and spit you out.
Violence: None of note, some scenes of wild teens nearly rioting, references to political assassinations.
Language: Some swearing
Sex: Suggestive moments and references.
Drugs: Use of pills, uppers, downers, smoking, drinking and other substances.
Parents’ advisory: This exuberant celebration of Elvis and his career goes to some dark places, but overall, it's a fitting tribute to the star. OK for older kids and teens.
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'THE BLACK PHONE'
Rated R for violence, bloody images, language and some drug use.
What it’s about: A child kidnapper called The Grabber snatches tween boys from the streets of Denver in the late 1970s.
The kid attractor factor: Starring and about kids, this horror flick may appeal to younger audiences but it is a hard-R rating.
Good lessons/bad lessons: Learn to stand up for yourself and use all the tools in your toolbox to succeed.
Violence: The violence against kids is extreme, from bully beatdowns to child abuse, to mutilated gory ghost-like figures.
Language: Strong language and swearing throughout.
Sex: None
Drugs: Onscreen use of cocaine.
Parents’ advisory: This may have kids in the film but it's no PG-13 horror. Extremely violent, gory, bloody images, violence against kids and by kids, and suspenseful situations of terror. For teens only.
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