Netflix’s Good Grief is a heartfelt journey of navigating loss, laughter, and the enduring power of friendship. Check out the details in my parents guide movie review.
Netflix’s Good Grief was released on the streaming service today, January 5, 2023. The film stars Dan Levy (Marc), Ruth Negga (Sophie), Himesh Patel (Thomas), Luke Evans (Oliver), Celia Imrie (Imelda), Arnaud Valois (Theo), David Bradley (Duncan), and Mehdi Baki (Luca). The movie was written and directed by Dan Levy. Check out all the details in my parents guide movie review.
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Netflix’s Good Grief Movie Quotes
Netflix’s Good Grief Parents Guide
In Netflix’s Good Grief: An artist grieving the loss of his famous writer husband takes his two best friends on a trip to Paris, where they unpack messy secrets and hard truths.
Netflix’s Good Grief Age Rating Parents Guide
Let’s take a look at what concerned parents need to know about the age ratings of the series before letting their younger children watch Netflix’s Good Grief.
Language: Netflix’s Good Grief contains some strong language, with profanity used throughout. Stronger words include f*ck, sh*t, sl*t, c*ck, d*ck, a**h*le, and d*mn.
Mature Content: The biggest lookout in the film, other than the stronger language, is the drug use and adult themes. The movie centers around a gay couple whose husband dies in an accident, which could be triggering for some viewers. While the accident was not shown, the funeral afterwards was included, as was the discussion of the character having to be pulled out of a car like “an escargot.” There are some adult conversations and discussions of dildos and open marriages. Characters are also seen consuming alcohol and partaking in drugs.
Age Rating of the Movie Netflix’s Good Grief: Netflix Originals Good Grief movie rating has an R rating by the Motion Picture Association of America – MPAA ratings – for language and brief drug use, and the parental guidelines advisory recommends it for mature audiences, an older audience, an adult audience, young viewers, young adult, little kids, older kids, and teens aged 17 years and older. The suggestion of parental guidance or a legal guardian (adult guardian) for this restricted R category is highly suggested for young children, teenage children. and young kids under 17 years of age in this R-rated motion picture for adult material. The minimum age recommendation is 17 years old.
Overall Thoughts
Step into the City of Lights for a bittersweet stroll with Good Grief, Dan Levy’s directorial debut. This Netflix film paints a portrait of grief and friendship, dabbled with humor and drenched in Parisian charm. Levy navigates the messy terrain of grief with honesty and sensitivity. Marc’s journey is raw and relatable, showcasing the ebbs and flows of loss, anger, and glimmers of hope. The film doesn’t shy away from messy emotions, making it feel refreshingly authentic.
Levy navigates the messy terrain of grief with honesty and sensitivity. Marc’s journey is raw and relatable, showcasing the ebbs and flows of loss, anger, and glimmers of hope. The film doesn’t shy away from messy emotions, making it feel refreshingly authentic. The cast shines. Levy is captivating as the grieving Marc, Negga brings vibrancy to the impulsive Sophie, and Patel adds a melancholic charm to Alex. Their chemistry is palpable, making you believe in their long-standing friendship.
However, Netflix’s Good Grief isn’t without its flaws. The plot treads on familiar paths, exploring themes of grief and friendship already well-trodden in cinema. While Levy injects unique touches, originality might be lacking for some viewers. Istumbles occasionally, with certain scenes feeling drawn out or unnecessary. Maintaining a consistent pace could have enhanced the overall flow. And while the main cast excels, some supporting characters feel underdeveloped, leaving their backstories unexplored and motivations unclear.
Good Grief is a heartfelt journey of navigating loss, laughter, and the enduring power of friendship. While the plot might feel familiar and the pacing uneven, the film’s emotional honesty, captivating performances, and Parisian charm make it a worthwhile watch. Recommended for those seeking a nuanced portrayal of grief with a dash of Parisian sunshine and witty banter.