Dickens & Rumi
Cover of The Cure

film

The Cure

1995

Erik, a loner, finds a friend in Dexter, an eleven-year-old boy with AIDS. They vow to find a cure for AIDS together and save Dexter's life in an eventful summer.

Source checked

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Strong language2/5

Strongest positives

  • Kindness & empathy5/5
  • Positive messages5/5
  • Courage & resilience4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

The death of a child from AIDS is a central, emotional element of the plot.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild profanity consistent with a PG-13 rating.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Minor religious references are incidental to the setting.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

A child’s serious illness, stigma, and a life-saving quest may be emotionally upsetting, but the evidence does not indicate horror or consistently frightening scenes.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional cigarette smoking by adult characters.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Minor instances of bullying directed at the protagonists.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonists show immense bravery in navigating their circumstances.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Reflects the imaginative, resourceful nature of the boys' friendship.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

A child living with AIDS is central and treated as a full person, but the supplied material indicates limited broader diversity in the main cast.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Provides historical context for the societal reaction to the AIDS crisis in the 90s.

Kindness & empathy5/5
Why this rating?

Kindness and unconditional acceptance are the pillars of the story.

Positive messages5/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes of empathy, the value of friendship, and facing tragedy with dignity.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

The boys show loyalty and determination, though their plans can be impulsive and adults do not always respond well.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. Where did a character show kindness or empathy, and what changed because of it?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in The Cure would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The Cure, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to watch or buy

Buy or rent on AmazonFind on JustWatch

As an Amazon Associate, Dickens & Rumi may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating