Eighth Grade

Eighth Grade

Movie (2018)

Based on the most awkward year of your life.

Thirteen-year-old Kayla endures the tidal wave of contemporary suburban adolescence as she makes her way through the last week of middle school — the end of her thus far disastrous eighth grade year — before she begins high school.

Comedy
Drama
94 minutes
Released
Jump to family guidance

Family guidance

Ages 14+

The film features authentic, often uncomfortable depictions of middle school social dynamics, including strong language and realistic portrayals of anxiety. It is best suited for older teens who can process the intense emotional vulnerability of the protagonist.

Every child is different. Use this guide alongside what you know about yours.

What to know before you start

Content details to help you decide what fits your child.

Sex & Nudity

2/5

The film includes discussions about puberty and sexual curiosity, as well as an uncomfortable scene involving a high schooler pressuring the protagonist. There is no explicit nudity, but the themes touch on adolescent romantic exploration and awkwardness.

Violence & Gore

0/5

There is no physical violence or gore depicted in the film, as the focus is entirely on social and emotional development.

Profanity

4/5

The dialogue contains frequent use of strong language typical of middle school environments, including 'f*ck' (multiple times), 'sh*t' (frequent), and 'b*tch,' usually used in casual conversation or emotional outbursts by teenagers.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

1/5

There is a brief, minor reference to alcohol consumption at a party, but it is not a central plot element or a focus of the story.

Frightening Scenes

3/5

The film contains intense emotional scenes, specifically regarding cyberbullying, social anxiety, and a highly uncomfortable and predatory encounter that may be distressing to younger viewers.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

A realistic look at the stresses of growing up, showing that it’s normal to feel awkward and that being yourself is more important than fitting in.

Content Warnings

Social anxiety
Strong language
Brief sexual references

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The film includes frequent use of strong language, sexual references, and depictions of social exclusion that may trigger sensitive viewers.

What Kids Can Learn

Viewers gain perspective on the universal nature of adolescent insecurity and the benefits of open dialogue with trusted adults.

Key Topics Discussed

Digital identity
Middle school transition
Emotional maturity

Why Parents Might Like It

It offers a deeply empathetic and unsentimental look at the modern middle school experience, fostering better communication between generations.

Positives & learning

Positive messages

4/5

Emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, the courage required to be vulnerable, and the value of authentic communication over curated online personas.

Role models

4/5

Kayla’s father displays patience, active listening, and consistent emotional support, serving as a powerful example of healthy parental guidance.

Representation

3/5

Features a multiculturally diverse middle school student body that accurately reflects contemporary suburban demographics.

Learning

3/5

Provides significant social-emotional learning regarding digital literacy, boundary-setting, and the navigation of adolescent mental health.

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