Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Song One is an angsty musical romance in the style of Once. Starring Anne Hathaway and British folk singer Johnny Flynn, the movie should appeal to teens and fans of indie rock, romances, and musicals. There's a central love story that mostly consists of longing looks and brief caresses but does include one sex scene, which isn't gratuitous but does show some bare skin (backs, arms, legs); there's also some moaning. Language is infrequent but includes an emotional "f--k," plus "s--t" and "damn." Scenes of a mother and sister upset and crying over their comatose son/brother could be upsetting. Positive messages include the transcendent power of musical expression, the unconditional bond between brother and sister, and the way a person function as a muse.

Sexual Content

Mostly longing, meaningful looks, but then Franny and James eventually make love in a longish scene that includes undressing, views of bare backs and legs, and some moaning.

Violence

Henry's comatose body is in nearly all of the hospital-based scenes. It's not violent, but it's sad and possibly disturbing, especially when Franny and her mom cry and get upset a couple of times.

Language

Infrequent use of words including "f--k," "s--t," and "damn."

Social Behavior

Positive messages about the healing power of forgiveness, the way musical expression can transform a person, and unbreakable sibling bonds. Also explores the worthiness of dedicating yourself to a career in music and the arts instead of a more traditional path.

Consumerism

Mostly electronics: Apple, iPhone, MacBook, Bose headphones. Also YouTube, Minute Maid, M&Ms.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Franny and Henry's mother smokes a lot of cigarettes and makes a joke about enjoying their scent as a reminder of her time in Paris in the 1970s. Franny, her mom, and James drink wine at home and, in the case of Franny and James, in clubs.