‘Terminator Salvation’
Rating: PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and language.
What it’s about: John Connor and the human resistance begin their war against machines in this “Terminator” prequel.
The Kid Attractor Factor: Humans vs. killer robots. Stuff blows up.
Good lessons/bad lessons: If we behave like machines, then what is the difference between humans and machines?
Violence: Almost non-stop, with an impaling, shootings but very little blood.
Language: The machines haven’t completely banned profanity.
Sex: None, despite the presence of Moon Bloodgood.
Drugs: None.
Parents’ advisory: As violent summer popcorn movies go, this one is “Transformers” tame. Suitable for 12-and-up.
‘Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian’
Rating: PG for mild action and brief language.
What it’s about: The exhibits from New York’s Museum of Natural History are moved into storage at the Smithsonian, where all heck breaks loose.
The Kid Attractor Factor: Stiller and monkeys and octopi, oh my!
Good lessons/bad lessons: When it comes to making a living, earn it doing something you love.
Violence: The threat of death, a lot of spears, a decent brawl, no blood.
Language: The “D-word,” used sparingly.
Sex: Amelia Earhart was quite the kisser, apparently.
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Drugs: None.
Parents’ advisory: Very much a kids movie, with a little history and “Let’s go to the museum” mixed in with the laughs, slapstick and special effects.