Parents' Guide to

Tommy Boy

By Alex Orner, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 16+

Raunchy, funny, and not for younger kids.

Movie PG-13 1995 97 minutes
Tommy Boy Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Community Reviews

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age 14+

Based on 4 parent reviews

Melissa S.
Melissa S. Adult
October 16, 2019
age 18+

Nudity

Very funny movie but not for people trying to have clean thoughts. There is a scene where the guys are watching a woman get completely naked and dive into a pool. You can see her breast and and butt.
Lowe's man
Lowe's man Adult
March 31, 2017
age 16+

Alluring but inappropriate for younger viewers; appropriate for its intended audience.

While this movie isn't for children or young teens because of things like drug use without consequences, skinny dipping, etc., older teens have a good deal to learn from this movie. I'm talking about things like loyalty, teamwork and working with people whose personalities are different than your own. Viewers will notice how Tommy and Richard initially can't stand each other but later adapt, as both change and learn to accept the other, including their faults. The only honest criticism that can be made is that there's no mention of Cedar Point. It is set in Sandusky, home of Cedar Point, after all. That park gets customers from all 50 states.
See all 4 parent reviews

What's the Story?

This simple minded, laugh-out-loud comedy begins with the sudden passing of "Big Tom" Callahan (Brian Dennehy). Callahan's family-owned brake pad business is in danger of facing its demise and eradicating the livelihood of a small town. Richard (David Spade), an obnoxious corporate underling is assigned to babysit Callahan's dimwitted maniacal son, Tommy (Chris Farley) who is set to inherit the company. In a last ditch effort to save both the company and their jobs, Richard teams up with Farley, on a raging road trip to sell a vast number of brake pads. The two find themselves in one ridiculous predicament after another, including the resurrection of a (presumed to be) dead deer.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (4 ):
Kids say (24 ):

Many have said the day Chris Farley died was the day David Spade stopped being funny, and after viewing this film, it becomes clear this is true. The movie employs the standard SNL formula of taking simplistic humor and cramming it in to an otherwise bland plot.

As any Farley (or Spade) fan knows, in this type of film, plot usually takes a back seat in favor of physical antics and notable one-liners ("fat guy in a little co-at..."). Kids will love the in-your-face comedy style of Chris Farley, but parents might find his humor to be lewd, offensive, and inappropriate for their child.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about some of the positive social messages included in the film such as loyalty to friendships and family bonds. Parents might discuss what characteristics of Chris Farley's character are considered vices and which can be commended. Parents could highlight his allegiance to both his family and friends despite the his risky lifestyle. Another topic is the role of large vs. small businesses. Much of this movie focuses on business ethics and continuously relays a positive message about standing up for "the little people."

Movie Details

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