Devotion is a powerful and inspiring story based on true events. Wondering if Devotion is kid-friendly? I’m breaking down all of the thematic elements, including its PG-13 rating, in my Devotion Movie Review and Parents Guide. Here’s what parents need to know to help YOU decide if it’s appropriate for kids. As always, no spoilers!
Devotion Movie Review (2022) + Parents Guide
Devotion is a war-based film based on the book by the same by Adam Makos. It’s inspired by true events that occurred during the Korean War, and highlights the friendship of U.S. Navy fighter pilots Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors) and Tom Hudner (Glen Powell).
The film opens at the Quonset Point Base, located in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. Being from RI myself, and with this particular location being only 15 minutes from my home, I immediately felt connected to the story.
Devotion is a very important movie that focuses on equality and prejudices. Jesse Brown is the U.S. Navy’s first Black aviator pilot, and it’s very clear he’s not accepted by his peers. The movie takes place in 1950, and it doesn’t shy away from racism. Jesse continuously has to prove himself capable, having to tirelessly go above and beyond. Everyone makes a spectacle of him because he’s the only Black pilot. Of course Jesse tries his best to show he’s just like anyone else. He even goes to say, “we all have the same parts.”
What makes Devotion such a moving story is the relationship between Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner. Majors and Powell truly soar in these roles and prove they’re both brilliant actors. They pull you into the story emotionally. Be prepared to shed some tears with this film.
Is Devotion Kid-Friendly? Here’s your Parents Guide:
Being a war-based film, you might be wondering what ages is Devotion appropriate for. Devotion has an MPAA rating of PG-13 for strong language, some action/violence sequences, and smoking. It has a runtime of 2 hours 18 minutes.
Devotion takes place during the Korean War, so you should be prepared for related scenes. However, nothing is overly graphic. The action/violence is more in reference to planes crashing, shooting, and explosions. There are many moments where characters are in peril. There are heavy themes like death, and obviously racism.
It’s very hard to see someone being treated so poorly, but at the same time, it’s important for us to see. We need to recognize that although this is history, these things still happen today, and that’s not okay. Racism is intolerable and it’s something we have the power to change.
Although Devotion is clearly not for little kids, I would encourage teens ages 13 and up to watch this movie. I know my oldest son would very much enjoy this film. My only complaint is the runtime. At pushing 2 1/2 hours, there are some moments that drag. The beginning of the movie takes awhile to get to where it’s going. But the final act is something worth celebrating.
Overall Thoughts
I will admit that I’m not usually a fan of war movies. HOWEVER, Devotion drew me in completely because of its story. The movie is much more focused on the lives of both Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner than it is with war. Devotion will tug at your heart and pull you in with its awe inspiring story. Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell’s unexpected friendship takes flight as the highlight of the film. Devotion is an important story worthy of telling. Devotion premieres in theaters November 23, 2022.
Devotion Synopsis
DEVOTION, an aerial war epic based on the bestselling book of the same name, tells the harrowing true story of two elite US Navy fighter pilots during the Korean War. Their heroic sacrifices would ultimately make them the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. Importantly, it recounts the story of the first African American aviator to complete the U.S. Navy’s basic flight training program and was a recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross – Jesse Brown.
I HOPE YOU FOUND THIS DEVOTION MOVIE REVIEW HELPFUL FOR YOUR FAMILY. WILL YOU BE WATCHING?!
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