Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that A Thousand Words is an Eddie Murphy comedy with some adult themes about family and marriage that may not interest or be appropriate for tweens. Language includes frequent uses of "s--t" and "ass," but there are no F-bombs. The nature of a marriage after a baby is discussed several times, and, in one sequence, a wife tries to seduce her husband by donning a dominatrix outfit and demanding that he "talk dirty." Starbucks is featured prominently in the film, and a barista is even a supporting character. On the bright side, there's a positive message about putting family first and finding inner peace and forgiveness.
Sexual
Content
One extended scene of humorous foreplay featuring Caroline in a dominatrix-style outfit. She handcuffs her husband (who's wearing only his boxers) and demands that he "talk dirty" and "naughty" to her. She makes suggestive comments about all she will "do" if he asks her. Throughout the movie, she wears sexy outfits and a cleavage-baring negligee. Caroline and a friend discuss whether her husband is "getting some" and "getting ass." Aaron makes comments about his "sexual hunger" for a furry fetish he and another assistant have indulged in at the office.
Violence
No overt violence, but lots of physical comedy, plus a moment in which Jack looks like he has died. Jack playfully slaps Aaron, and later Aaron tackles and pushes Jack to get him to be quiet.
Language
The words "s--t," "bulls--t," and "ass" are used frequently. Other language includes "damn," "d--k," "goddamn," "crap," "hell," "pecker," "oh my God," and the Spanish word "cojones."
Social
Behavior
A Thousand Words' basic messages are that people should think before they speak and not spout so many meaningless lies. As in most family dramas, the main character learns that he needs to be there for his son, unlike his own father. He also realizes that his job should come second to his family's needs. The benefits of being quiet and observing are also promoted.
Consumerism
Starbucks is so prominently featured in the movie that it might as well have produced the film. Jack is an espresso addict, and he goes to the same Starbucks daily. Many scenes take place at the Starbucks, and the barista is even a supporting character in the movie. Absolut vodka is shown briefly in one scene.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Adults drink hard liquor and cocktails at various lunch and dinner meetings, including vodka, martinis, beer, etc. Jack wants to get drunk in one scene and starts drinking straight from the bottle.
