This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the content found in the movie “I Am Number Four,” a sci-fi thriller based on the best-selling young adult novel by Pittacus Lore. Parents can use this information to make informed decisions about whether or not this movie is appropriate for their children.
Overview
“I Am Number Four” is a 2011 science fiction action film based on the first book in the Lorien Legacies series by Pittacus Lore (a pen name for the writing partnership of Jobie Hughes and James Frey). The film tells the story of John Smith (Alex Pettyfer), a teenage alien who is one of the last survivors of his race, the Lorien, after their planet was destroyed by an enemy race called the Mogadorians. John, known as Number Four, is on the run from the Mogadorians, who are hunting down the remaining Lorien survivors. He has been living in a small town in Ohio with his guardian, Henri (Timothy Olyphant), but when a Mogadorian ship arrives, John must flee and find the other Lorien survivors to fight back. The film explores themes of identity, friendship, and the importance of fighting for what you believe in. It also touches on the dangers of prejudice and the consequences of war.
Plot Summary
The film opens with John Smith, a seemingly ordinary teenager, arriving in a small town in Ohio. He’s living with his guardian, Henri, who is actually a Lorien who has been protecting John from the Mogadorians. It soon becomes clear that John is not just any teenager; he’s Number Four, one of the last surviving Lorien warriors on Earth. Number Four possesses extraordinary powers, including telekinesis, telepathy, and the ability to heal. However, he is still learning to control his abilities. As John settles into his new life, he meets Sarah (Dianna Agron), a kind and compassionate girl who becomes his love interest, and Sam (Callan McAuliffe), a fellow outcast who becomes his friend. The Mogadorians, who have been tracking John, soon arrive in the town. They attack John and Henri, forcing them to flee. John and Henri are forced to go on the run, seeking out other Lorien survivors. They are aided by a mysterious woman named Nine (Teresa Palmer), another Lorien warrior, and her partner, Number Six (Kevin Durand). The group must learn to work together to defeat the Mogadorians and protect Earth from their destructive plans.
Target Audience
“I Am Number Four” is primarily targeted at young adults, particularly those who enjoy science fiction, action, and adventure stories. The film’s themes of identity, friendship, and fighting for what’s right resonate with teenagers and young adults. The movie’s fast-paced action sequences and dramatic plotlines appeal to a wide range of viewers, while its underlying message of hope and resilience resonates with audiences of all ages. Although the movie’s target audience is primarily teenagers and young adults, its themes of love, loss, and sacrifice can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages. However, the movie’s intense action sequences and mature themes may be too intense for younger children.
Violence and Action
“I Am Number Four” is a sci-fi thriller that features significant amounts of violence and action. The film depicts intense battles between the protagonists and the antagonists, with scenes involving explosions, gunfire, physical combat, and the use of supernatural powers. The violence in the film is generally portrayed in a realistic manner, and some scenes may be disturbing for younger viewers. There are also scenes of characters being injured or killed, although the violence is not overly graphic. The action sequences are fast-paced and exciting, but they may be too intense for sensitive viewers. Parents should be aware of the film’s violent content and consider whether it is appropriate for their children.
Mature Themes
While “I Am Number Four” is a science fiction film geared towards a young adult audience, it delves into some mature themes that parents should be aware of. The film explores themes of loss, grief, and the trauma of being on the run from a dangerous enemy. The protagonists are forced to confront their pasts and the difficult choices they have had to make to survive. The film also touches on themes of love, friendship, and the importance of fighting for what you believe in. These themes are presented in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking, but some parents may find them to be too intense for younger viewers. It is important for parents to consider their children’s maturity levels and emotional sensitivity when deciding whether or not “I Am Number Four” is appropriate for them.
Language
The language used in “I Am Number Four” is generally appropriate for a young adult audience, but it does contain some mild profanity. The characters use a few common curse words, such as “damn” and “hell,” but these are not used excessively or in a particularly offensive manner. There are also a few instances of slang and colloquialisms that may not be familiar to younger viewers. Overall, the language in “I Am Number Four” is not overly offensive or graphic, but parents should be aware that it does contain some mild profanity and slang that some viewers may find objectionable. It is important for parents to consider their children’s tolerance for profanity and slang when deciding whether or not “I Am Number Four” is appropriate for them.
Sexual Content
While “I Am Number Four” is primarily an action-adventure film, it does contain some mild sexual content. The movie features a few scenes of romantic interest between the main characters, John Smith and Sarah, including some kissing and suggestive dialogue. However, the film avoids any explicit sexual activity or nudity. The romantic aspects are generally handled with a light touch and focus on the developing relationship between the characters rather than on graphic depictions of intimacy. While the sexual content in “I Am Number Four” is relatively mild, parents should be aware that it does exist. It is important to consider your child’s maturity level and comfort with such themes when deciding whether or not the film is appropriate for them.
Substance Use
“I Am Number Four” does not depict any substance use. The movie focuses on the action-packed narrative of John Smith, a young alien on the run from a dangerous enemy, and his journey of self-discovery and finding his place in the world. The film’s primary themes are centered around friendship, love, and fighting for what is right, making it a relatively safe choice for younger viewers. However, it’s important to remember that real-life substance use can be a complex and potentially harmful issue, and parents should be prepared to discuss these topics with their children if they arise. While “I Am Number Four” does not directly address substance use, it presents an opportunity for parents to have open and honest conversations with their children about the potential dangers of alcohol, drugs, and other substances.
Positive Messages
Despite the action-packed and often intense nature of “I Am Number Four,” the movie carries several positive messages. The film emphasizes the importance of friendship and finding one’s place in the world. John Smith, the protagonist, is an alien who has been on the run his entire life, but he learns to connect with others and form meaningful relationships. The movie also highlights the significance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of danger. John’s journey is a testament to the power of courage and determination, as he ultimately chooses to fight for his own survival and for the protection of those he cares about. Ultimately, “I Am Number Four” promotes themes of resilience, courage, and the importance of fighting for what is right, making it a potentially positive viewing experience for young audiences.
Educational Value
“I Am Number Four” offers limited educational value beyond the basic themes of friendship, courage, and resilience. While the film introduces the concept of extraterrestrial life and the potential for intergalactic conflict, it does not delve deeply into scientific or historical aspects of these themes. Additionally, the movie’s fast-paced action and focus on the protagonists’ survival may not provide opportunities for deeper reflection or discussion on complex issues. However, the movie could serve as a springboard for discussions about the importance of accepting those who are different, dealing with difficult situations, and the consequences of violence. Parents can use the film as a starting point to explore these themes with their children and encourage critical thinking about the messages presented.
Overall Assessment
“I Am Number Four” is a visually appealing and action-packed film that caters to a young adult audience. The movie boasts impressive special effects, exciting fight sequences, and a captivating plot that keeps viewers engaged. However, its focus on violence and intense action scenes may be unsuitable for younger children or those sensitive to such content. The film also explores themes of romance and betrayal, which may be challenging for younger viewers to comprehend. Despite these considerations, “I Am Number Four” can be a stimulating experience for older teenagers and young adults who enjoy science fiction and adventure stories. Parents should weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of the film’s content before deciding whether it is appropriate for their children.
Recommendation
For parents seeking a thrilling science fiction film for their older teenagers, “I Am Number Four” could be an engaging choice. The movie’s fast-paced action, captivating storyline, and compelling characters can provide an entertaining experience for young adults. However, the film’s intense action sequences, mature themes, and romantic elements warrant careful consideration. Parents should engage in open discussions with their teenagers about these aspects before allowing them to watch the movie. It is crucial to ensure that the film’s content aligns with their child’s maturity level and personal sensitivities. Alternatively, parents might consider exploring other science fiction films with a more family-friendly approach, ensuring a more suitable experience for their children.
Alternatives
For parents seeking alternative science fiction films with a more family-friendly approach, several options offer captivating storylines and engaging characters without the intense action and mature themes present in “I Am Number Four.” For younger audiences, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” provides a heartwarming and imaginative tale of friendship and acceptance, suitable for children of all ages. For slightly older viewers, “Star Wars⁚ A New Hope” offers a classic space opera filled with adventure, humor, and themes of good versus evil, making it a suitable choice for families. “The Iron Giant” presents a compelling story about a young boy’s friendship with a giant robot, exploring themes of friendship, courage, and selflessness, while “Wall-E” offers a unique and visually stunning animated adventure that explores environmental themes and the importance of connection. These films provide engaging alternatives for families seeking a science fiction experience that aligns with their values and preferences.