Common Sense Media Review
By Maya Dollarhide , based on child development research. How do we rate?
Charming coming-of-age film infused with romance.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Mystic Pizza
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 3 parent reviews
What's the Story?
Working at MYSTIC PIZZA, a pizzeria in the port town of Mystic, Conn., Daisy (Julia Roberts), Kat (Annabeth Gish), and Jojo (Lili Taylor) sling pies made with a secret sauce that seems to delight everyone -- even dour restaurant critics. It's summertime, and high school is behind them, but the future seems frightening. Will they end up doling out slices in the hardscrabble, Portuguese fishing town for the rest of their lives? The film follows the trio through a summer of change and tough decisions about life, love, and careers. By summer's end, the three friends learn new things about themselves and those they love, but their friendship and sisterhood remain intact.
Is It Any Good?
This is a funny, sweet coming-of-age movie with a charming cast, and terrific performances by Roberts, Gish and Taylor. Mystic Pizza's dated clothing, hairstyles, and music should make fine fodder for 21st-century teen ridicule -- but once they get past that, they'll enjoy it just as much as their parents did.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about embarrassment in Mystic Pizza. What kind of things make you feel embarrassed about your family -- and what do you love about it? Why are roots important?
What role does social class play in society?
How does it determine your friendships and other relationships?
Movie Details
- In theaters: October 21, 1988
- On DVD or streaming: November 13, 2001
- Cast: Annabeth Gish , Julia Roberts , Lili Taylor
- Director: Donald Petrie
- Inclusion Information: Female actors
- Studio: MGM/UA
- Genre: Comedy
- Run time: 105 minutes
- MPAA rating: R
- MPAA explanation: Restricted
- Last updated: September 24, 2024
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