'M3GAN'
Rated PG-13 for violent content and terror, some strong language and a suggestive reference.
What it’s about: A high-tech doll programmed by an aunt to comfort her grieving niece turns out to have a dark side.
The kid attractor factor: This is a horror movie, but it will appeal to teens and younger horror fans, especially with it's PG-13 rating and cheeky attitude.
Good lessons/bad lessons: Don't trust the technology in your home! Or anywhere!
Violence: M3GAN is a murderously naughty doll. She attacks a young boy, kills a dog, tortures a neighbor, stabs a tech executive and brawls with her maker.
Language: Some swearing.
Sex: None
Drugs: None
Parents’ advisory: This is too violent and scary for little ones but OK for older-kid horror fans and teens.
———
'A MAN CALLED OTTO'
Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material involving suicide attempts, and language.
What it’s about: Tom Hanks has entered his grumpy old man era in this dark but hopeful comedy about a curmudgeon finding community.
The kid attractor factor: Not much, this is more of an adult dramedy.
Good lessons/bad lessons: Never give up hope, help your neighbors and find the reasons that life is worth living in the mundane, and the monumental.
Violence: Several suicide attempts by different methods — hanging, vehicular carbon monoxide poisoning and shooting, none successful or resulting in grievous injury. A bus accident and acknowledgement of death.
Language: Some swearing.
Sex: None
Drugs: None
Parents’ advisory: This would be fine for teens and older kids, if they are interested and willing to have frank discussions about the issues of suicide and despair.
———
