Story
Midnight in Paris is a visually beautiful movie that tells the story of Gil (Owen Wilson) and Inez (Rachel McAdams), an American couple who travel to Paris with her parents. Gil is a successful Hollywood screenwriter. He’s also keen to find a more meaningful expression for his literary talents and has begun writing his first novel. He’s wildly in love with Paris and jumps at the chance to go with Inez and her parents on an unplanned trip. But Inez is less enthusiastic about Paris. When she bumps into some old friends, she seizes the opportunity to spend time with them.
While Inez parties and visits tourist attractions with her American friends, Gil walks the streets alone, soaking in the sounds, sights and feelings, and finding inspiration for his novel. One evening, Gil stumbles into a piece of Paris’s history and meets some of his literary idols from the 1920s. His magical experiences help bring clarity and direction for his life, both personally and professionally. They also force him and Inez to face the truth about their relationship.
Themes
Violence
There is some mild violence in this movie. For example:
- Ernest Hemingway drinks a lot of alcohol. Then he stands up at a party and asks, ‘Who wants to fight?’
- During one scene, a character gets drunk. Thinking that her husband no longer loves her, she threatens to drown herself.
Content that may disturb children
Under 8
Aside from the violent scenes described above, there are no other scenes in this movie likely to upset children in this age group.
From 8-13
Aside from the violent scenes described above, there are no other scenes in this movie likely to upset children in this age group.
Over 13
Nothing of concern
Sexual references
This movie has some sexual references. For example:
- One of the characters talks about Adriana being in love with Gil. She also talks about Adriana’s past sexual encounters with other men.
- Inez admits she has been unfaithful and spent several nights with another man.
Alcohol, drugs and other substances
This movie shows quite a lot of substance use. For example:
- Many characters throughout the movie often drink too much. Characters drink wine at almost all meals and occasions.
- The scenes of 1920s Paris show many of the main characters drinking a lot and acting strangely as a result.
- Many characters smoke throughout this movie.
Nudity and sexual activity
This movie has some sexual activity. For example, Gil and Inez kiss on their hotel bed. Also, Gil and Adriana kiss.
Product placement
The following products are displayed or used in this movie: Moet champagne and Dior fashion.
Coarse language
There is some coarse language in this movie.
Ideas to discuss with your children
Midnight in Paris, directed by Woody Allen, is a whimsical romantic comedy likely to be enjoyed by adults. It lacks interest for children, who won’t recognise the historical characters. It also contains some sexual references and frequent drinking and smoking.
The main messages from this movie are about being true to yourself, and not sacrificing the things that make you happy just to please other people.
This movie could give you the chance to talk with your children about real-life issues such as trust and honesty. In particular, you could talk about how important these are in relationships. Do Gil and Inez trust each other? How would honesty have helped their relationship?