Is The High Note Kid Friendly? | Parents Guide

The High Note, starring Tracee Ellis Ross and Dakota Johnson, is a rom-com that’s enjoyable, though a stretch at times. There are high notes and low notes, but is The High Note kid friendly? Rated PG-13 for language and suggestive references, The High Note is ok for kids ages 13 and up. Here’s what parents need to know and whether it’s worth a watch.

The High Note Parents Guide Review

Grace Davis (Ross) is a star who some believe, at over 40, should have a Vegas Residency and be grateful to play her music there. They don’t think the people want new music. Insert Maggie Sherwood (Johnson), Grace’s assistant, who not only is a superfan but also dreams of producing music, even Grace’s music. She schemes to make these things happen, but in a well-meaning way. 

You have the usual rom-com formula and other than some strong language, The High Note is pretty safe for the tween and teen crowd. 

Language

There is strong language in The High Note with at least 10 uses of sh–, 5 uses of a–, 6 uses of damn, 4 uses of g-d damn, and at least 2 uses of the f-word. Other words like douchebag, dick, and piss off are used, too. There are also several uses of OMG and one Jesus Christ. 

Mature Content

There is some kissing, implied sexual relations, and you see two people in bed in underwear. No major skin is shown. Also many characters are shown drinking alcohol. 

Does The High Note Hit High?

I could throw around music puns all day, but essentially The High Note misses a few chords. The cast is talented, their performances are convincing, but the script is not believable. It went from a music industry buildup to a fantasy. 

But fantasies aren’t all bad. I’m a dreamer, too. 

The females came out to work. They dominated the screen and although the female empowerment came on a little strong, maybe that’s what we need to finally get the message across.

I loved seeing Ross on stage. Her presence is striking, her diva-ness is fierce, and she’s as funny as she is in Black-ish.  Johnson also shines as she ditches her Fifty Shades persona and does what it takes to chase her dreams, although making mistakes along the way. 

Kelvin Harris Jr. and Ice Cube fulfill their rom-com roles as the handsome distraction who can sing, and manager friend who has been with Grace the whole way who keeps Maggie in check. They’re both underutilized, but quality.

The High Note is a welcome distraction from the mess that we’re living right now. It’s just enough in tune to make it worth the rental price. A reminder to chase your dreams no matter who, what, or where, settle in with the joyous harmony from The High Note. 

Now, let me go download the soundtrack. 

The High Note is on demand now for a rental of 48 hours for $19.99.

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