Overview
What if our imaginary friends from childhood never really left? The movie IF is a playful, heart-warming story of a girl who discovers she can see everyoneās imaginary friends. The problem is, these imaginary friends have been forgotten by the kids who originally imagined them. It becomes up to Bea and her unlikely (and slightly grumpy) new friend to reconnect the imaginary friends with the children who once believed in them.Ā
With an unbelievable cast including Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Steve Carell, and so much more, this movie is the perfect mix of humor, emotion, and whimsy for a story that both kids and adults can enjoy. Here are the details parents should know before watching with their kids.Ā
Harmful Content āļø
Parents should know that this is a feel-good kidās movie with little to no harmful content. Part of the movie explores themes of loss, as the main character, Bea, experiences losing her mother to an illness. Her father is also in the hospital for a heart surgery, which brings up emotions from her motherās passing. Bea describes trying to āblock the world outā and ānot wanting to feel anything ever again.ā Some of these moments may be difficult for younger audiences to comprehend or troubling for those whoāve had similar experiences.Ā
LanguageĀ
There are sparse uses of words like āhellā and ādamn.ā
Sex
This movie has no sexual content.Ā
ViolenceĀ
Aside from some slapstick comedy and some small jump scares, thereās essentially no violence in IF.Ā
Positive Value š«
This movie celebrates imagination, creativity, and the lasting impact of childhood memories. But even more so, there are clear lessons of empathy, kindness, and hope that are shown through the main character, Bea. Not only does Bea help others connect with the wonder and joy of their childhood, but she also reminds others (and herself) that itās okay to feel deeply and dream big things.Ā
So, should my kid watch it?
Absolutely! Weād say this movie is appropriate for kids around 6 and up, for its minimal harmful content and its positive lessons of imagination and compassion.Ā
