Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that young fans of Disney's ubiquitous Debby Ryan will clamor to see her in this movie, and their enthusiasm will be rewarded with a multitude of positive messages about self-confidence, taking risks, and standing up for what you believe in. The story is designed to make viewers align themselves with the painfully shy protagonist and against her social nemesis, whose nastiness brings issues like peer pressure and bullying to the forefront, but there are enough light moments to keep the overall tone manageable for most kids. Expect some flirting between teens and the development of a sweet romance, plus some butting of heads between high-schoolers and their power-hungry principal. But none of this is too much for the movie's intended tween audience, and it's the themes of empowerment and self-esteem that will stick.

Sexual Content

A couple of kisses between teens.

Violence

Not applicable

Language

Not applicable

Social Behavior

The story is rich in positive messages about expressing yourself, being confident in your convictions, and standing up to peer pressure. Many characters show a willingness to change themselves for the better by taking risks and having faith in their own beliefs. There's some bullying on the part of the movie's "villain," a social diva who uses her position to get what she wants from her peers, but even she experiences some self-reflection as a result of the story developments.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable