Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that the lead character, Simon Birch, is a dwarf who is the subject of continuous intolerance and ridicule by adults, children, and the local religious leader. The film depicts the 12-year-old boy as a child who is wise beyond his years and believes that God has made him small for a higher purpose. Simon's best friend, Joe, was born out of wedlock and is also an outcast in the community. Language includes words like "s--t" and "bastard," and there are references to an adolescent girl's breasts. An accidental death at the hands of Simon leads Joe on a search of his biological father. There's a bus accident where children are in peril, and a main character dies saving everyone. The movie is based on John Irving's A Prayer for Owen Meany, and fans of the book should know that the movie is very different.
Sexual
Content
Repeated discussion of Simon's best friend being born out of wedlock. Also, there are mentions of an adolescent girl's breasts and a scene where Simon grabs them, although the audience doesn't see the actual touch.
Violence
Sad accidental death of one character from being hit by a baseball. A bus accident where children are in peril, and a main character dies saving everyone.
Language
Profanity including "s--t" and "bastard."
Social
Behavior
Kids and adults belittle the lead character's dwarfism. The town pastor even says "Simon Birch is not a normal person." However, Simon sacrifices himself and ends up becoming a hero and saving the lives of many, showing that character matters more than size. Good messages about forgiveness, too.
Consumerism
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Simon's father, the religion teacher, and the pastor all smoke.
