Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this 1937-set Zac Efron showbiz dramedy from Dazed and Confused director Richard Linklater is a world away from High School Musical (though Efron does sing). It tackles mature themes -- including infidelity and opportunism -- that aren't age-appropriate for Efron's tween fan base, and the movie's initially slowish pace may turn off even some older fans. But when things get going, the movie is breezy fun for those who appreciate showbiz history. Expect some strong language (including "s--t"), a bit of drinking and smoking, and references to sex (though nothing graphic is shown).
Sexual
Content
A man and a woman spend the night together together; later, she beds another guy, which angers the other (no nudity is shown). Men discuss ways to seduce women and make a bet on which one of them will manage to sleep with a specific woman first. A married actor cheats on his pregnant wife.
Violence
Men argue over a girl; a stage carpenter grows irate with a director, and they nearly come to blows.
Language
A fair amount of swearing, including "sons of bitches," "bastard" and "s--t."
Social
Behavior
The underlying message is that fame and stardom don't measure up to love and learning. But it takes a while for the main character to discover this, and others don't at all.
Consumerism
Mention of Wheaties.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Social drinking; a high school senior downs a glass of wine and smokes a Cuban cigar.
