Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this classic Hollywood screwball comedy/murder story from 1934 includes free-flowing hard liquor -- characters drink a great deal, with very few realistic consequences (only one hangover). Three dead bodies are involved in this murder story, and several guns are brandished and fired, though there's no gore or blood. The lead characters are married and occasionally pass some playful innuendo back and forth. Given that the movie is about grown-ups in grown-up relationships, some kids or teens may not be interested, but if they relent, they'll probably enjoy it. (Plus, there is a cute dog.)
Sexual
Content
Some very mild sexual innuendo, more playful than anything else. The married couple likes to lovingly tease one another. We see some kissing. There's some vague discussion of couples cheating on one another, plus a quick image of a man ogling a "sexy" magazine ad.
Violence
This murder mystery has three deaths as part of its plot. Guns are brandished and fired, and there are gunshot wounds (no blood). In one scene a woman hurls a cooking pot at a man's head. Additionally, there is punching, slapping, and fighting (women are slapped), plus arguing and threats.
Language
Not applicable
Social
Behavior
Most of the movie is focused on having a good time, but some good ideas can be found buried inside. Over the course of the movie, Nick learns that doing detective work, solving problems, and helping others is perhaps more satisfying than drinking and being lazy. Dorothy learns not to jump to conclusions about her father. And Nora encourages her husband to help others, while at the same time learning to tolerate the more "uncouth" aspects of his job.
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
The main characters -- especially Nick -- are almost constantly drinking hard liquor (rye whisky and gin). There are many jokes about wanting another drink. Nick sometimes acts a bit loose and slurs his words a bit, but he rarely seems to have any difficulty with his drinking, and he stops for the final stretch of the movie (when he's solving the murder). Nora appears once with a hangover. Minor characters are seen smoking a few times.
