Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that Hector and the Search for Happiness -- which is based on the novel by Francois Lelord -- blends humor with a thought-provoking plot about a middle-aged man's identity crisis. Much of it is light and breezy, but a lot of it is ponderous, too, and may not appeal to younger viewers. Expect some swearing (mostly "s--t" and "f--k"), drinking (mostly social, though characters do get drunk at one point), partial nudity (a naked woman's backside is shown), kissing, and references to drug dealing. There's also an extended sequence in which a man is shown in a jail cell, clearly terrified, beaten (both physically and emotionally), and on the edge of his sanity.
Sexual
Content
A naked woman lies next to a man while asleep; her backside is visible. A woman prances around in her underwear while Skyping. Couples kiss. A prostitute propositions a man at a bar.
Violence
A drug lord threatens a traveler's life. Kidnappers beat up a character and threaten to shoot him point-blank; he's bloodied and scared in an extended sequence. In another scene, a man pushes a woman around. He hits her, and she hits back.
Language
Strong language includes "s--t," "hell," and many uses of "f--k."
Social
Behavior
If you find yourself lost, metaphorically speaking, travel might be a way to find yourself and come back home. And it's important to be aware of your own issues, or you won't be able to change for the better.
Consumerism
Lots of brands/products are spotted, including Skype, BMW, the New York Times, iPod, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and Ferrari. In one scene, a man talks about how money buy happiness -- sort of.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Friends get drunk at a bar. A guy talks about being a drug dealer. Some discussion about the proper dosage for prescription pills. Social drinking and the like.
