Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that threats of violence and death, often directed against an 11-year-old boy, are constant here. The movie begins with him almost becoming a victim in a murder-suicide (showing how to rig up a car exhaust as a suicide device in the process). Young Mark is no angel, swearing at PG-13 level (as do most other characters) and smoking. Both Mark's family and Reggie's have been ruined by drinking and divorce.

Sexual Content

Not applicable

Violence

A threatened murder-suicide, with a child as a potential victim. Shooting, and a tackle/beating, and one character blows his brains out (just offscreen). There's an arson fire and threats of stabbing and torture. Quick shot of a rotted corpse.

Language

Lots of the "s" word, plus "asshole," "bitch," "bastard," and "hell." Mark gives the bad guy the finger.

Social Behavior

Rebellious boy hero Mark is resourceful, and also ethical enough to try and stop a total stranger committing suicide. He still needs to be dissuaded from using violence as a solution in the end. Police officers and public prosecutors are portrayed as menacing or selfish characters who threaten Mark -- with the exception of the African American judge and Reggie, who is like a mother figure.

Consumerism

Mostly local-color connections to Memphis and Elvis tourism, and the natural tie-in to John Grisham books.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Mark smokes cigarettes and "protectively" orders his little brother not to smoke more than one per day. Mark is asked if he does harder drugs. Statements of drug abuse in Reggie's past. Massive drinking by the suicidal lawyer.