Video/DVD Review: *batteries not included
What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that this film's overall content is
very mild. However, there are some scenes of violence. One
includes an arsonist burning down an apartment building.
Another scene shows characters threatening others with axes and
baseball bats. This film clearly depicts characters as either
good or bad. Even young children will recognize what behavior
is acceptable.
Families can talk about the importance of home. Why were the
tenants willing to fight so vehemently against those who
attempted to evict them? Parents could also highlight the
importance of standing up for what you believe in.
Set in an impoverished section of New York City, *BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED tells the story of honest, blue-collar citizens threatened with eviction to make way for a modern housing complex. The tenants find their prayers answered by an unlikely source: mechanical alien flying saucers. The saucers have the uncanny ability to restore the decrepit apartment complex and defend the tenants from their evictors. It's a quintessential movie of good people vs. bad people.
Although the film often drags at points, its message is warm and heartfelt. The movie emphasizes the notion of standing up for one's beliefs. One major flaw is Jessica Tandy's character. Her performance as a senile wife is not credible as she teeters in and out of senility like a metronome. Attention is directed toward the struggles and triumphs of the characters. The relationships between the characters are mature, but not overly complex for a child to understand. *batteries not included features a unique plot and conveys an overall positive message that both children and adults will appreciate.
E.T.Short Circuit
Short Circuit 2
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
Join Us