Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this character-based drama (which marks the directorial debut of Oscar-winning actor Philip Seymour Hoffman, who also stars) is poignant and touching but meant for adults thanks to its frequent sex talk, drinking and drug use, and language (especially "f--k"). Hoffman's character is somewhat inspirational, pulling himself out of a sad existence when he meets a girl and trying to improve himself so he deserves her. But at the same time, his best friend's marriage is falling apart. Teens may not be interested in this quiet story, but adults who are already Hoffman fans may appreciate it.
Sexual
Content
A man and a woman are seen in bed together, having a frank discussion about sex (their fears and hopes). In a later scene, they fall into bed together, finally ready for the deed. A married couple deals with issues of infidelity, and past sex acts are discussed. There are a couple of inappropriate workplace touching scenes, and a woman describes an incident in which a man "rubbed up against her." General sex talk throughout.
Violence
A married couple shoutshateful things at each other during a heated argument. A woman is attacked on a subway, but the attack isn't shown -- viewers see a man approaching her and then her bloody face sometime later (the images are only mildly graphic; she goes to work before going to the hospital).
Language
Several uses of "f--k" and "s--t." Also hear "bitch," and "God" (used as an exclamation).
Social
Behavior
The four main characters all seem to be striving toward bettering themselves and overcoming their weaknesses. In some cases they help one another and encourage one another. The hero, Jack, needs the most help but comes the farthest during the course of the film. Unfortunately, Jack can do nothing to help his married friends with relationship trouble, and they don't appear to be addressing the situation in the healthiest of ways. Not all of the movie's problems are solved.
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Heavy, seemingly casual use of cigarettes, wine, beer, pot, and cocaine during the course of the movie. One character smokes cigarettes regularly and uses cocaine once. All of the characters drink wine with dinner several times. During a dinner party, one character brings out a hookah pipe. All of the characters get so stoned that the food cooking in the kitchen burns.
