Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that The Boys Are Back is a moving drama about profound loss experienced by both adults and children -- subject matter that could easily overwhelm younger kids and tweens. A mother's death is depicted onscreen, as is her family's unraveling soon after she's gone. But though the journey to healing is messy -- a widower makes some questionable parenting choices in the wake of his loss -- healing does happen, and it's affecting to watch. Expect some swearing ("s--t" is the strongest word used), drinking, and kissing/flirting between adults.
Sexual
Content
A married couple kisses and flirts with each other. A man and a woman get their signals crossed about what's developing between them.
Violence
A teen, filled with frustration and anger, throws plates and other dishes to the floor. Later, destructive teens swarm a house and have a party against its residents' will.
Language
Regular (though not overly frequent) use of words like "hell," "ass," "bugger," "bloody," "sodding," "oh my God," and, on occasion, "s--t."
Social
Behavior
The film truthfully portrays mourning, and it's almost refreshing to see the bumps not completely glossed over. It's heartening to witness Joe's efforts at becoming the father he needs to be when he himself is stricken with grief, as well as Harry's and Artie's burgeoning bond. That said, Harry does embrace some traditional opinions about how men and women handle emotions.
Consumerism
In some scenes, logos for athletes' sponsors are shown.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Overcome with grief, a man starts drinking too much. In one scene, he grabs an entire bottle of wine and drinks to oblivion.
