Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that Big Miracle is an animal-rescue adventure that was inspired by a true story from the 1980s. Although the movie has positive messages about family, friendship, nature, and more, there's one very disturbing death that may cause little ones to cry out of sadness. Language includes a few exclamations like "damn," "holy crap," "hell," and "bastards," and mild flirting includes one kiss between a grown-up couple. Because this is a "period" drama, there are some political discussions about Reagan's administration versus the Greenpeace agenda. Kids will also learn about Inuit tribe culture, the difference between tribal and commercial whaling, and about whales and their migratory patterns.
Sexual
Content
Nathan calls a TV reporter "hot." Adam flirts with Jill and eventually rekindles his relationship with Rachel; they share one kiss.
Violence
The movie opens with an Inuit tribe hunting a whale, which they harpoon (this happens off camera). Bam Bam is injured during the ordeal; his breath sounds shaky and labored while he's ill. Spoiler alert: Children may become upset during an unexpected animal death. It's devastating, because audiences assume there will be a happily ever after. Expect younger kids to be disturbed, possibly to the point of crying. Also a few tense moments during a helicopter ride.
Language
Mild language and insults/name-calling include "hell," "stupid," "holy crap," "witch," "damn it," "cocky," "bastards," and "oh my God." Because the movie takes place in the '80s, the Inuit tribe is referred to by the less politically correct term "Eskimo."
Social
Behavior
Many positive messages about family, teamwork, nature, appreciating your cultural background, and even politics.
Consumerism
The National Guard Colonel drives a Maserati and owns a JVC sound system and Mr. Coffee coffee maker. A Sony and RCA Walkman are also shown.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
In one scene in which two characters discuss job frustrations, many mini bottles of scotch are visible, and one character refers to herself as drunk. There might also be drinks on a table during a brief dinner scene or two, but it's not overt.