Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that Private Romeo is a modern take on Romeo and Juliet, set in an all-male military school. It includes a mix of dialogue directly from the play, some modern language, and lip-synching to indie rock, and viewers should know that it's not a faithful retelling of the play. As it's an all-male cast, Romeo and Juliet are both men and are shown kissing and naked in bed (covered with a sheet). There's also some semi-erotic dialogue between Mercutio and Romeo (straight from the Bard and full of puns about pricking each other with "swords"). There's also some violence (a fistfight) and talk of suicide, though this version tones down the violence of the traditional play with some significant plot changes. Language includes "s--t." Cadets cut up prescription pills and drink beer at a party.
Sexual
Content
Romeo and Juliet (two men) kiss, make out, and are shown naked in bed together (though covered with a sheet). Mercutio and Romeo trade sexual puns, sometimes accompanied by sexual gestures, such as Mercutio grabbing his crotch. Mercutio gives Romeo longing glances. Military cadets are frequently shirtless or only wearing a towel.
Violence
A feud leads to fighting, but in this version it's only a fistfight, not a fight to the death. Suicide is also a theme but with an outcome different from that of the original play.
Language
"S--t" twice, and a character flips his middle finger.
Social
Behavior
The play promotes peace, which is emphasized in this version by Mercutio bandaging Tybalt's hands after they fight. Positively portrays homosexual relationships.
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Cadets cut up prescription pills, drink beer at a party. One student prepares a potion for Juliet to drink, which appears to be some sort of homemade drug.
