Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that The Way, Way Back is an empathetic, entertaining coming-of-age dramedy that rings true on many levels, capturing what it's like to be a 14-year-old boy surrounded by adults who should be doing a better job of acting their age. Some themes (i.e. infidelity) may be too much for tweens, but teens will appreciate the challenges the main character faces and how he decides to confront them. Expect scenes showing adults in various states of inebriation (mostly giggly and neglectful), seducing others who aren't their mates, and being cruel to teens, among others. A teen is shown sneaking a few beers into her purse; others talk about how one teen supplies adults with weed. Language includes one "f--k," plus "s--t" and "a--hole," and there's innuendo and stolen kisses between a couple who are involved with other people.
Sexual
Content
Innuendo, plus some lingering camera shots on women's backsides (as they're ogled by guys) and stolen kisses between a man and a woman who are technically involved with other people.
Violence
Some arguments, both big and small.
Language
Language includes one "f--k," plus "s--t," "damn," "d--k," "jackass," "crap," "ass," "a--hole," "oh my God," and more. A euphemism is used for the c-word.
Social
Behavior
Just because someone (say, a parent) is older, that doesn't mean she's wiser. Sometimes teens are just as insightful, if not more so, and we can all learn from one another. Also, nobody's perfect, but some imperfections are kinder and gentler than others. Choose who you want to be. Being yourself and finding joy in it is the path to happiness.
Consumerism
Some brands/products are seen/mentioned, including iPhone, Pabst, Google, and Chevrolet.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Adults spend a chunk of the summer pretty much drunk or nearly drunk. One woman proudly announces that she's off the wagon (and is obnoxious to boot). A teenage girl sneaks a few beers into her purse. There's talk of people buying weed, but viewers don't really see it. A man is shown smoking a cigar.
