Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Space Warriors centers on savvy teen geniuses (boys and girls) whose smarts rival those of the NASA scientists they emulate. The underdog protagonists are teased, sabotaged, and otherwise tormented by a group of their peers, but this and all other disgraceful behavior brings serious repercussions by the movie's end. There's suspense surrounding the fate of some of the characters, and at times the story toggles between the fictional plot and some real historical events (including the U.S. space shuttle tragedies) in the U.S. space program, so be sure your kids can grasp the difference between fiction and reality with regard to these points. Expect to see some strategic product placement for movie sponsors Walmart and Procter & Gamble as well. Ultimately, though, this story offers families a wealth of positive messages about relationships, responsibility, and fair play.

Sexual Content

A blossoming teen relationship culminates in one kiss.

Violence

The movie makes references to space shuttle disasters in 1986 and 2003, and video footage shows the smoke trail left by one of the explosions. A brief skirmish between teen boys ends quickly with an adult's intervention. There's a lot of suspense surrounding the fate of three characters, who, at one point, are believed to be dead. It's said that a character's father died during a flight.

Language

No cursing, but name-calling like "dweeb" and "loser," as well as talk of "kicking butt."

Social Behavior

Viewers see the rewards of teamwork over individual ambition and the repercussions of cheating your way to the top. All of the characters' missteps have serious consequences, from grounding to the loss of a team's award, but those with the purest intentions emerge as heroes. New perceptions cast a forgiving light on long-held animosity. A group of teens bullies competitors in an attempt to coerce their own victory.

Consumerism

The movie is sponsored by Walmart and Procter & Gamble, and you'll see their logos and product names prominently displayed in some scenes. Other product placement (Apple computers, for instance) is less obvious.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable