This guide is designed to help parents make informed decisions about whether or not The Lifeguard is appropriate for their children․ The film is a coming-of-age story about a former valedictorian who returns to her childhood home in Connecticut and starts a risky relationship with a troubled teen boy; The film explores themes of identity, regret, and second chances, but it also contains some mature content that may not be suitable for all viewers․
Introduction
The Lifeguard is a 2013 American drama film directed by Liz W․ Garcia and starring Kristen Bell, Mamie Gummer, Martin Starr, and Alex Shaffer․ The film tells the story of Leigh (Bell), a former valedictorian who quits her reporter job in New York City and returns to her childhood home in Connecticut․ There, she takes a job as a lifeguard and begins a tumultuous relationship with a teenage boy named Jason (Shaffer)․ The film explores themes of identity, regret, and second chances, but it also contains some mature content that may not be suitable for all viewers․
This parents guide is designed to help parents make informed decisions about whether or not The Lifeguard is appropriate for their children․ It will provide a detailed breakdown of the film’s content, including its thematic content, sexual content, language, violence, and drug use․ We will also discuss the film’s rating and offer some parental concerns and discussion points․
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to allow your child to watch The Lifeguard is up to you․ This guide is simply meant to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision․
What is the Movie About?
The Lifeguard follows Leigh, a former overachiever who is struggling to find her place in the world․ She has left behind her successful career as a reporter in New York City and returned to her childhood home in Connecticut․ There, she takes a job as a lifeguard, a seemingly simple and carefree position that allows her to escape the pressures of her past․ However, her decision to return to her hometown is not a simple one․ Leigh is grappling with her own personal demons and searching for meaning in her life․ She finds herself drawn to Jason, a troubled teenage boy who is also searching for something in life․ Their relationship is a complicated one, and it is clear that Leigh is struggling to reconcile her past with her present․
The film explores themes of identity, regret, and second chances․ Leigh is trying to figure out who she is and what she wants out of life․ She is haunted by her past mistakes and is trying to find a way to move forward․ The film also explores the complexities of human relationships and the challenges of growing up․
The Lifeguard is a coming-of-age story that is both relatable and thought-provoking․ It is a film that will stay with you long after you have seen it․
Why is the Movie Rated PG-13?
The Lifeguard is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) for thematic elements, including some sexual content, language, and smoking․ The film’s rating reflects the mature themes and content that are present throughout the story․
The film’s sexual content is primarily focused on the relationship between Leigh and Jason, who is a teenager․ While the relationship is not explicitly shown, it is implied and discussed in the film․ The film also contains some brief nudity, specifically involving a scene where a model’s bikini top is pulled off by a group of boys․ The language in the film is mostly mild, but there are a few instances of stronger language․ The film also depicts smoking, which is shown in a few scenes․
While the film’s rating suggests that it may not be appropriate for all viewers, it is important to note that the sexual content is not graphic or explicit․ The film’s themes are more mature than its sexual content, and it is ultimately up to parents to decide if the film is appropriate for their children․
Thematic Content
The Lifeguard explores several complex themes that may resonate with both younger and older audiences․ The film delves into the struggles of adulthood, particularly for those who feel like they haven’t achieved the success they envisioned for themselves․ Leigh’s return to her childhood home and her decision to become a lifeguard represent a desire to escape the pressures of her adult life and recapture a sense of carefree youth․ This theme of longing for a simpler time and questioning one’s life choices is relatable to many viewers who may have experienced similar feelings of dissatisfaction or stagnation․
The film also tackles the complexities of relationships, particularly the dynamics of romantic relationships and friendships․ Leigh’s relationship with Jason raises questions about age differences and the boundaries of appropriate behavior․ The film doesn’t shy away from exploring the emotional and ethical implications of their connection, prompting viewers to consider the complexities of attraction and consent․
Furthermore, The Lifeguard examines the themes of regret and second chances․ Leigh’s decision to leave her job and return to her hometown reflects a desire to make amends for past mistakes and find a sense of purpose․ The film encourages viewers to reflect on their own choices and consider the possibility of starting over or taking a different path․
Sexual Content
The Lifeguard features some sexual content that may be considered mature for younger viewers․ The film depicts a romantic relationship between Leigh, a woman in her late 20s, and Jason, a teenager․ While the film doesn’t explicitly show any sexual acts, it does include scenes of implied intimacy and suggestive dialogue․ These scenes may be uncomfortable or confusing for younger audiences who may not be prepared to grapple with the complex dynamics of such a relationship․
There is also a brief scene where a woman’s naked breasts are shown for a few seconds․ This scene occurs in the context of a prank played by two young men who pull off a woman’s bikini top while she is being photographed on the beach․ While the scene is brief, it may be considered inappropriate for younger viewers․
Parents should consider their children’s maturity level and comfort with such content when deciding whether or not The Lifeguard is appropriate for them․ It’s important to have open conversations with children about the themes of sexuality, consent, and boundaries that are explored in the film․
Language
While The Lifeguard isn’t overly reliant on strong language, it does contain some instances of profanity and vulgarity that may be considered inappropriate for younger viewers․ The film’s characters, particularly the teenagers, use a few instances of curse words and slang terms that are common in contemporary dialogue but might not be suitable for all audiences․
The use of language in the film generally reflects the characters’ personalities and the situations they find themselves in․ For example, the main character, Leigh, uses some profanity when she is feeling frustrated or angry, which reflects her overall emotional state and the challenges she faces․ However, the language is not gratuitous or used for shock value․
Parents should consider their children’s sensitivity to language and their own family values when deciding whether or not the film’s language is appropriate for them․ It might be helpful to watch the film yourself beforehand to get a better sense of the language used and how it fits into the overall narrative․
Smoking
Smoking plays a relatively minor role in The Lifeguard․ While there are instances of characters smoking cigarettes, it’s not a central theme or a major plot point․ The film does not glorify smoking or portray it as a cool or desirable activity․ The characters who smoke do so mostly in social settings or as a way to cope with stress, but their actions are not meant to be emulated․
The film’s depiction of smoking is more realistic than glamorized․ The characters who smoke are shown to be adults who make their own choices, but the film doesn’t shy away from portraying the negative consequences of smoking․ It’s important to note that the film does not depict any young characters smoking․ The focus is on the adult characters and their personal struggles, with smoking being a secondary element․
Parents should consider their own family values and their children’s understanding of the risks associated with smoking when deciding whether or not the film’s depiction of smoking is appropriate for them․ If you are concerned about the message the film might send regarding smoking, it might be helpful to have a discussion with your children about the health risks associated with smoking after watching the film․
Violence
While The Lifeguard touches upon themes of personal struggles and risky behavior, it does not contain graphic violence․ The film’s focus is on the psychological and emotional aspects of its characters’ journeys rather than physical harm․ There are a few scenes that involve implied violence, such as a brief altercation between characters, but these instances are not depicted explicitly․ The film’s primary focus is on the characters’ internal conflicts and the consequences of their choices, not on physical violence․
The film’s exploration of themes like regret and second chances is often portrayed through dialogue and character interactions, not through violent acts․ The level of violence in the film is minimal and does not feature any graphic bloodshed or gore․ The film primarily relies on emotional tension and character development to drive the narrative, rather than relying on violence to create suspense or action․
Parents should consider their children’s sensitivity to violence when making a decision about viewing the film․ While the violence is minimal and not overly graphic, some viewers, especially younger children, might find the implications of violence disturbing․ It might be helpful to have a conversation with your children about the film’s themes and discuss the consequences of risky behavior, which is a more prominent element in the film than violence․
Drug Use
The Lifeguard does not depict drug use in a direct or explicit manner․ While the film explores themes of personal struggles and risky behavior, it does not feature scenes of drug use or consumption․ The film’s focus remains on the characters’ emotional journeys and the choices they make, rather than showcasing illegal activities like drug use․ This approach allows the film to delve into complex themes of identity, regret, and second chances without resorting to graphic or sensationalized portrayals of drug use․
The film’s emphasis is on the emotional and psychological consequences of the characters’ actions, rather than on the physical aspects of drug use․ This approach might be appreciated by parents who are concerned about exposing their children to graphic depictions of drug use․ It allows the film to engage with mature themes in a nuanced and thought-provoking way, without resorting to explicit portrayals of illegal activities․
However, it is important to note that the film does touch upon themes of risky behavior and poor decision-making, which can be associated with drug use in real life․ Parents may want to discuss these themes with their children and use the film as an opportunity to open up a conversation about making responsible choices and the potential consequences of engaging in risky behaviors․
Parental Concerns
Parents may have concerns about the film’s exploration of mature themes, particularly the romantic relationship between the protagonist and a teenage boy․ The film portrays a complex and nuanced relationship, but it may be challenging for younger viewers to understand the ethical and emotional complexities involved․ Some parents might also be concerned about the film’s portrayal of the protagonist’s choices, which could be perceived as irresponsible or reckless by some viewers․
The film’s depiction of the protagonist’s past as a valedictorian and her current struggles with finding her place in life might resonate with some viewers, but it could also be a source of concern for parents who are worried about their children’s self-esteem and aspirations․ The film’s focus on the protagonist’s personal journey could be interpreted as a reflection of the pressures and anxieties faced by young adults in today’s society, which might be a subject that some parents prefer to avoid․
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to allow children to watch The Lifeguard is a personal one that should be made based on individual family values and beliefs․ Parents should consider their children’s maturity level, their understanding of complex themes, and their ability to differentiate between fiction and reality before making a decision․
Discussion Points
The Lifeguard presents a unique opportunity for families to engage in meaningful conversations about various aspects of life, including identity, self-discovery, and the challenges of navigating adulthood․ The film’s portrayal of the protagonist’s choices and their consequences can spark discussions about responsibility, decision-making, and the impact of actions on others․ Parents can use the film as a springboard to explore topics such as the importance of pursuing one’s passions, the complexities of relationships, and the challenges of balancing personal desires with societal expectations․
The film’s depiction of the protagonist’s relationship with a teenage boy can lead to discussions about the complexities of relationships, the importance of healthy boundaries, and the ethical considerations involved in romantic relationships․ Parents can use the film to emphasize the importance of communication, respect, and consent in relationships, and to discuss the dangers of engaging in inappropriate or risky behavior․
Ultimately, The Lifeguard provides a starting point for families to explore complex themes and to engage in open and honest conversations about the challenges and complexities of life․ It can serve as a catalyst for understanding and empathy, fostering valuable discussions about the importance of making responsible choices and navigating the complexities of human relationships․
Alternatives
If you are looking for a film that explores similar themes of self-discovery and identity without the mature content found in The Lifeguard, there are a number of alternative options available․ For a coming-of-age story with a more lighthearted tone, consider films like The Princess Diaries or Mean Girls․ These films offer relatable characters and engaging storylines, exploring themes of friendship, fitting in, and finding one’s place in the world․ For a more dramatic approach, films like Lady Bird or The Fault in Our Stars delve into the complexities of family relationships, loss, and finding meaning in life, while still maintaining a PG-13 rating․
If you are concerned about the film’s depiction of sexual content, you might consider films that explore themes of relationships and love in a more wholesome manner․ Films like The Fault in Our Stars and To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before offer heartwarming and realistic portrayals of young love and the challenges of navigating romantic relationships․ These films prioritize character development and emotional depth, providing a safe and engaging experience for younger audiences․
Ultimately, the choice of which film to watch is a personal one, and it’s important to consider your family’s preferences and comfort levels․ By exploring a variety of options and engaging in open conversations about the content, you can find films that are both entertaining and meaningful for your family․
The Lifeguard is a complex and thought-provoking film that tackles themes of identity, regret, and second chances․ While it offers a realistic portrayal of the challenges and complexities of adulthood, it also contains mature content that may not be suitable for all viewers․ Parents should carefully consider the film’s themes and content before deciding whether or not it is appropriate for their children․ Open communication with your children about the film’s message and its portrayal of adult themes can foster a deeper understanding and meaningful discussion․
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to watch The Lifeguard is a personal one․ If you are concerned about the film’s mature content, there are a number of alternative options available that explore similar themes in a more appropriate manner․ By choosing films that align with your family’s values and comfort levels, you can create a positive and enriching viewing experience․
Remember that watching films together can be a great opportunity for families to engage in meaningful conversations and connect on a deeper level․ By approaching these discussions with open minds and a willingness to learn, you can foster a sense of understanding and shared experiences within your family․
