Bugsy Malone

Bugsy Malone

Movie • 1976

Every year brings a great movie. Every decade a great movie musical!

New York, 1929, a war rages between two rival gangsters, Fat Sam and Dandy Dan. Dan is in possession of a new and deadly weapon, the dreaded "splurge gun". As the custard pies fly, Bugsy Malone, an all-round nice guy, falls for Blousey Brown, a singer at Fat Sam's speakeasy. His designs on her are disrupted by the seductive songstress Tallulah who wants Bugsy for herself.

Drama
Action
Comedy
Music
Family
93 minutes
Released
9+

Suggested Age

Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.

This film's portrayal of gangster rivalries, though stylized with pies and custard, involves themes of conflict and romantic competition that may be better understood by older children. The period setting and nuanced relationships require a certain level of maturity.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

1/5

The film features mild romantic tension and suggestive dancing, but no explicit or graphic sexual content.

Violence & Gore

2/5

The violence is stylized and cartoonish, primarily involving 'splurge guns' that shoot cream pies and custard, leading to messy but not gory outcomes.

Profanity

1/5

Some mild language may be present, but it is infrequent and generally not offensive. For example, 'd*mn' might be used.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

2/5

The setting is a speakeasy, so social drinking and smoking are depicted as part of the era, but there are no strong themes around substance abuse.

Frightening Scenes

1/5

While there are some chase scenes and playful conflict, the overall tone is lighthearted, and there are no truly scary or intensely disturbing moments.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

It's a fun, musical story about two rival gangs in New York who have a pie fight war! A nice guy named Bugsy tries to win the heart of a singer, but another singer wants him all to herself. It's all very silly and musical!

Content Warnings

Gang violence (stylized)
Jealousy

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

While presented with child actors and a comedic tone, the film depicts a gangster war. The violence is stylized (splurge guns, pies) and bloodless, focusing on rivalry and competition rather than serious harm. Romantic entanglements and jealousy are present.

What Kids Can Learn

Children can learn about navigating conflicts, understanding different motivations in relationships, and the appeal of musical performance. The narrative offers a playful introduction to historical settings.

Key Topics Discussed

Gangster rivalries
Romance
Musical theater

Why Parents Might Like It

This film offers a unique, nostalgic musical experience with a playful take on classic gangster tropes, appealing to adults with its visual style and score.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

3/5

The narrative highlights the value of kindness and integrity amidst a backdrop of rivalry. Bugsy's attempts to navigate complex relationships and his pursuit of love offer lessons in pursuing personal happiness.

Positive Role Models

3/5

Bugsy Malone embodies a 'nice guy' persona, demonstrating loyalty and a desire for positive relationships. While not without flaws, his character offers a relatable example of navigating difficult situations with a good heart.

Diverse Representations

2/5

The film features a cast primarily composed of child actors, offering representation for younger performers. Specific details on authentic representation of diverse groups are not indicated in the available information.

Educational Value

3/5

Introduces historical context of the Prohibition era and gangster culture through a lighthearted lens. Exposes children to musical theater and storytelling conventions.

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