Students need to watch each movie listed before class. I have listed specific versions and year released to help students identify which movie version will be discussed in class. Each student is responsible for sourcing and viewing each movie listed prior to class.   

Forrest Gump Rated PG-13m 1994 135 Min.
The Outsiders Rated PG-13 1983 114 Min.
Speak Rated PG-13 2004 94 Min.
The Hunger Games  Rated PG-13 2012 142 Min.
Love, Simon Rated PG-13 2018 123 Min.
Fahrenheit 451 NR 2018 100 Min.
The Devil Wears Prada Rated PG-13 2006 106 Min.
Hamlet Rated PG-13 2009 182 Min.
Crazy Rich Asians Rated PG-13 2018 121 min
The Crucible Rated PG-13 1996 124 Min.
Just Mercy Rated PG-13 2019 136 Min.
Emma Rated PG 2020 123 Min.
Dune Part 1 Rated PG-13, 2021 155 Min.
Arrival Rated PG-13 2016 111 Min.

In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Youtube
Google Slides
Google Docs

While I did choose films that are rated PG-13 or lower they are a work of their times. What does this mean? What our society thinks of as acceptable has changed over time. In these films you will see things that may not be filmed the same if they were remade today. Please review the movies and versions listed before registering for class. I have included the recommendations from Common Sense Media ratings and what parents need to know under each movie. The website this information was taken from is: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/

Please note that each numbered class coincides with a grade level. For example the films in Movies From Literature 1 were picked from typical 9th grade novels, Movies From Literature 2 from typical 10th grade novels, Movies From Literature 3 from 11th grade novels, and Movies From Literature 4 from 12th grade novels. 

Week									                                                                                            Movie

1								                                                                                                      Forrest Gump
                                                                                                                                                                     Rated PG-13m 1994 135 min
                                                                                                                                                          Common Sense 13+, Parents 13+, Kids 12+

Parents need to know that although Forrest Gump's strong language ("s--t," "f--k," and more), violence (including some bloody/explosive Vietnam War scenes and the implication of child abuse), and sexual situations (foreplay, kissing, implied sex, and more) make it questionable for young kids, its ultimately positive messages and entertaining take on three decades of American history make it a fine choice for families with teens. Parents may want to preview the movie for its realistic treatment of serious issues like abuse, the Civil Rights movement, drugs, and war.

2								                                                                                                      The Outsiders
                                                                                                                                                                      Rated PG-13 1983 114 Min.
                                                                                                                                                           Common Sense 14+, Parents 11+, Kids 12+

Parents need to know that The Outsiders is the 1983 Francis Ford Coppola film adaptation of a novel detailing the coming-of-age of "greaser" teens in 1950s Tulsa as they contend with not just bullying and physical attacks from the rich kids on the other side of the tracks but also abuse and neglect from their parents at home, poverty, and bleak future prospects. Characters drink, smoke, get in fights, harass schoolchildren, use knives and guns, and commit murder. One character is severely burned and dies. Additionally, the film deals frankly with class stratification. A teen girl rejects the drunken sexual advances of her boyfriend while they're at a drive-in movie theater. At this same drive-in, a clearly drunk teen raises the skirt of a teen girl, exposing her panties. A "greaser" teen asks a teen girl with red hair, in so many words, if her pubic hair is the same color. Occasional profanity includes "damn," "son of a bitch," "bastards," and "wiseass," and expect to see the middle-finger gesture. Note: The original cut of the movie was rated PG in 1983, before the PG-13 rating existed. The edited/extended cut released in 2003 carries the PG-13 rating.

3									                                                                                                 Speak
                                                                                                                                                                        Rated PG-13 2004 94 Min
                                                                                                                                                           Common Sense 14+, Parents 18+, Kids 12+

Parents need to know that Speak, a Showtime 2004 movie based on a novel of the same name by Laurie Halse Anderson, is an intense study of the aftermath of a sexual assault by a high school boy at a party where there was underage drinking. The assault is depicted in a close-up of the anguished face of the attacked high school girl. No nudity is seen. The movie suggests that the trauma of the attack is made worse for the victim when she remains silent about what happened to her. The subjects of bullying and social isolation are also addressed. Close friends blame the victim for calling the police, which broke up the party and led to the arrest of several friends, who suffered consequences. None of the friends were aware that she called the police because of the rape. Language includes "horny, "a--hole," "bitch," and "shut up."

4								                                                                                                The Hunger Games  
                                                                                                                                                                Rated PG-13 2012 142 min
                                                                                                                                                         Common Sense 14+, Parents 13+, Kids 12+

Parents need to know that although the bestselling Hunger Games books are enormously popular with tweens, there's a clear distinction between reading about violence and seeing it portrayed on screen in The Hunger Games. Developmentally, the 10- to 12-year-olds who've read the book may find the movie's visceral, sometimes bloody teen-on-teen violence upsetting -- especially the brutal scene that opens the Games, in which several teens are slaughtered by their fellow contestants. Even young teens need to be mature enough to deal with the 20+ deaths in The Hunger Games; characters are viciously dispatched with various weapons -- including spears, arrows, and swords -- as well as by having their necks broken, their skulls cracked, and their bodies ravaged by carnivorous and poisonous creatures. Despite the violence (which is, overall, less graphic than the novel's descriptions but is still very intense), the movie explores thought-provoking themes about reality television, totalitarian government, and screen violence as entertainment. And Katniss, the main character, is a strong heroine who's resourceful, selfless, and a true survivor. Her mentor, Haymitch, is initially depicted as a cynical drunk, but he ultimately proves to be a valuable ally.

5									                                                                                        Love, Simon
                                                                                                                                                               Rated PG-13 2018 123 Min.
                                                                                                                                                        Common Sense 13+, Parents 12+, Kids 12+

Parents need to know that Love, Simon is a dramedy based on the YA novel Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda. It focuses on a high school senior (Nick Robinson) who finds the confidence to come out after corresponding with an anonymous friend online. It's not as edgy as many teen movies, but there's still some iffy stuff. Two homophobic teens tease and prank Simon and another gay student, calling them "f-g," "fruity," and "she." And in the school cafeteria, they climb on a table and mime anal sex. Administrators and fellow students alike condemn the display and support Simon and the other student, ultimately cheering when two gay students kiss (there's other kissing, too). Teens drink beer and play drinking games at a party; one comes home drunk, and his parents decide not to do anything because he didn't drive drunk and came home by curfew. Background cigar smoking. One joke refers to huffing paint, others to masturbation, "H.J.s," and Grindr. But overall, sex is referred to in not-very-graphic terms. A boy blackmails Simon to get time with Simon's cute female friend, and Simon goes along with it; he later atones, but the friend rightfully feels exploited. Language includes one use of "f--k," plus "dumbass," "s--t," "goddamn," and "a--hole." All of this said, the movie is positive and affirming, with messages of courage, integrity, and empathy. Characters are accepting of all of their friends' and family members' traits, including being gay, and are loving and supportive.

6										                                                                                    Fahrenheit 451
                                                                                                                                                                   NR 2018 100 Min.
                                                                                                                                                    Common Sense 14+, Parents 15+, Kids 13+

Parents need to know that Fahrenheit 451 stars Michael B. Jordan and is a loose adaptation of the classic Ray Bradbury novel. There's a bit of overt sexuality and strong language, but the latter seems mostly incidental (it feels improvised by the actors, rather than emphasized in the script), so HBO likely intended for the adaptation to be seen by teens. The film does make a big deal about fire: The main characters are "firemen," but rather than putting out fires, they carry blowtorches that allow them to eradicate any cultural material (books, films, music, and electronics) that the government deems dangerous to the population. The firemen use their weapons to show off in classrooms, punish criminals, and destroy property -- and the film makes setting these fires look very cool. Fire is also used to kill people throughout the film. The movie takes major liberties with the book's plot, making substantial changes that end up muddying the message and blunting the impact of the original story.

7									                                                                                       The Devil Wears Prada 
                                                                                                                                                               Rated PG-13 2006 106 min
                                                                                                                                                       Common Sense 13+, Parents 13+, Kids 11+

Parents need to know that The Devil Wears Prada is a 2006 movie about an aspiring journalist who moves to New York and lands what many would consider to be a dream job: working as an assistant to the editor-in-chief of the world's premiere fashion magazine. But she finds out that the editor also has a reputation for being a demanding perfectionist who can be quite vicious when her high standards are not met. The movie features cruel judgments about body size and fashion. Characters are materialistic and catty (usually as comedy, though some hurtful comments are also made). Characters use moderate language ("s--t") and drink alcohol. Lots of mentions of high-end fashion brands. Andi has sex with a writer on their first date (after admitting she's drunk), then regrets it. Younger kids won't be interested, since the subject matter won't mean anything to them. The movie could inspire discussion about how women in positions of power are perceived differently than men -- a point Andi makes toward the movie's end.

8									                                                                                                        Hamlet
                                                                                                                                                                     Rated PG-13 2009 182 Min.
                                                                                                                                                         Common Sense 14+, Parents 15+, Kids 13+

Parents need to know that this compelling interpretation of Shakespeare's classic tragedy, set in modern times, is filled with scheming, betrayal, violence, and intrigue. Like most Shakespearean tragedies, this tale ends with more than a few deaths and little to leave viewers upbeat. On the positive side, it's thoughtfully done and could whet teens' appetite for more of the Bard.

9									                                                                                                 Crazy Rich Asians 
                                                                                                                                                                        Rated PG-13 2018 121 min
                                                                                                                                                          Common Sense 13+, Parents 12+, Kids 11+

Parents need to know that Crazy Rich Asians is a book-based romcom that centers on Rachel Chu (Constance Wu), a smart, independent Chinese American economics professor who's in love with Nick Young (Henry Golding), who turns out to be from an insanely wealthy Singapore family. The world of materialism, obscene wealth, status, and expectation that Rachel encounters there is totally over the top: Money is literally thrown in the air. Expect to hear some strong language (including "s--t," "t-ts," and more) and see drinking during many party scenes; cocaine use is also briefly implied. Couples kiss, and sex is suggested but not shown; one actress is rumored to be a porn star, and men make snide comments about women's cosmetic surgery and physical appearance (including small breasts). That said, women aren't objectified overall; instead, the camera tends to linger on shirtless men. The very rare mainstream Hollywood release to feature an all-Asian cast, the film avoids Asian stereotypes -- but it does have a fairly stereotypical gay character. And the cattiness is off the charts, with some fairly shocking "mean girl" behavior. But it's refreshing to see a romcom heroine who doesn't need saving by a man (Rachel loves her life, and she and Nick have a healthy, respectful relationship), and the film has strong messages about loving yourself, staying in control, and addressing problems with dignity and class.

10								                                                                                                                  The Crucible
								                                                                                                        Rated PG-13 1996 124 Min.
							                                                                                                Common Sense 14+, Parents 14+, Kids 14+

Parents need to know that The Crucible is an intense 1996 exploration of the Salem witch trials based on Arthur Miller's play. It delves into the basest human instincts: violence, self-protection, lust, hypocrisy, territorialism, paranoia, and crowd mania. Religious fervor is shown in its worst light, with so-called sinners accusing others of sin. Religious and political leaders, as well as judges and neighbors, prove to be corrupt and self-serving. Expect brief nudity: From afar and in fog, a girl's buttocks and breasts are briefly shown. A married man discusses a past affair with a young single woman. They kiss, then he pushes her away violently. There is talk of hanging as punishment for refusing to admit to witchcraft, and hanging is briefly seen. Servants are beaten and smacked. A man is tortured and ultimately crushed to death when townspeople place heavy rocks on his chest to induce him to inform on others. A girl smashes a rooster to the ground, then smears her face with its blood. The 17th-century language echoing Salem witch trial transcripts may pose a challenge for young modern viewers.

11										                                                                                                     Just Mercy
                                                                                                                                                                               Rated PG-13 2019 136 Min
                                                                                                                                                          Common Sense 13+. Parents 13+, Kids 12+

Parents need to know that Just Mercy is a fact-based courtroom drama that tackles the subjects of racism and the death penalty. It centers on idealistic young lawyer Bryan Stevenson (Michael B. Jordan), who travels to Alabama to help save a wrongfully convicted man on Death Row (Jamie Foxx). It has strong language, including multiple uses of "s--t" and the "N" word. There are also some violent and/or upsetting scenes, including a police officer pointing his gun at Bryan's head and the lead-up to a character's death by execution. But violence is primarily conveyed through dialogue, including discussions of murder (shooting and strangulation), the planting of a bomb, and a character getting burned. There are also moments of anger and hate/racism. Bryan is forced to strip for a search; he's humiliated as he removes his shirt and (below the frame) pants and underwear. There's also brief, mild sex-related dialogue, and brief smoking and beer drinking. The story isn't surprising, but it's very effective, with clear messages of perseverance, the importance of doing the right thing, fighting hard for those who need it the most, and the problematic relationship between bigotry and justice.

12										                                                                                             Emma
								                                                                                                  Rated PG 2020 123 Min.
						                                                                                                         Common Sense 12+, Parents 13+, Kids 11+

Parents need to know that Emma. is a delightful adaptation of Jane Austen's much-beloved classic about a clever, charming young woman who can't stop meddling in her friends' love lives. It's quite tame overall, but there's a quick scene of partial nudity when Knightley (Johnny Flynn) undresses (his naked backside is shown) and another side view of Emma (Anya Taylor-Joy) as she warms her rear end near the fireplace for a moment before lowering her gown. Neither scene is sexual in nature. But characters do kiss, flirt, and talk about marriage and courtship. Characters drink socially, and Emma believes a man to be drunk. There's no strong language or violence, though one character is nearly set upon by thieves, and another gets a nosebleed. The movie, like the book, explores issues of women's roles in society, friendship and courtship across social classes, and why manipulating others, even for their own good, rarely ends well. Adapted by screenwriter Eleanor Catton and directed by photographer and music director Autumn de Wilde, the movie has themes of empathy, compassion, and learning to ask for forgiveness.

13										                                                                                     Dune Part 1
                                                                                                                                                                Rated PG-13, 2021 155 Min.
                                                                                                                                                        Common Sense 13+, Parents 12+, Kids 12+

Parents need to know that Dune is based on Frank Herbert's epic 1965 novel (previously adapted for the big screen in 1984 and for TV in 2000). It covers the first half of the book and stars Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya. Sci-fi action violence includes lots of fighting, both on the battlefield and one on one, with guns, knives, and other weapons. There are also beheadings and explosions, and characters are stabbed and/or cut open, poisoned, and eaten by worms. A little bit of blood is shown, and characters die. There's kissing and partial male nudity (no sensitive body parts shown). Infrequent language includes "s--t," "ass," and "hell." The story is about a drug known as "spice," but it's more of a thing for everyone to fight over than a real drug. While this (long) movie isn't without its flaws, director Denis Villeneuve gives it a languid smoothness that makes for an enthralling tale.

14										                                                                                            Arrival
                                                                                                                                                                Rated PG-13 2016 111 Min.
                                                                                                                                                   Common Sense 11+, Parents 12+, Kids 11+

Parents need to know that Arrival is a deeply thoughtful sci-fi movie about trying to communicate with aliens rather than defeat them. It presents battle and war as last resorts, with only frightened, desperate people looking to violence as a solution. It champions education, compassion, and curiosity and has a strong female lead character (Amy Adams). Brief, upsetting hospital scenes show a girl dying of an invasive disease, and there's an explosion and the threat of war. Language is infrequent, although there is one use of "f--k." Other words heard are more along the lines of "screw it," "God no," "I hate you," and "idiot." One adult character drinks wine, and there are references to a married relationship, a budding romance, and a hug. Although the movie is slow-paced, it's a great, exceptionally compassionate pick for families with curious, thoughtful tweens and teens.