Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that even though J Lo is popular with younger teens, this isn't a movie for that age group. The characters abuse alcohol, engage in excessive drug use, curse frequently, and generally display self-degrading, suicidal behavior. Many scenes depict explicit drug use and sexual activity, mostly motivated by the mind-altering substances. Though the audience soon understands that there's little hope for Hector Lavoe and his family, the characters themselves seem unable to change their conduct, even at the risk of their own lives and the lives of loved ones. It's a non-stop downward spiral without a happy ending.

Sexual Content

Adulterous behavior, sexual foreplay, and off-camera intercourse; seductive dancing; two adults in a provocative bathtub scene; no actual nudity.

Violence

Intense domestic verbal fighting with threat of violence; firearm used for purpose of intimidation.

Language

Continuous use of cursing; "f---k" in all forms is used in almost every scene.

Social Behavior

Leading characters exhibit self-destructive behavior and are hurtful to others; women are treated as sexual objects and abused verbally; drug use shown to destroy relationships, careers, and family.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Both leading characters are drug addicts and are pictured high and/or incapacitated throughout; drugs are clearly ingested and injected in numerous scenes, and use is implied in others; frequent alcohol consumption leads to anti-social and cruel behavior.