Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Max

film

Max

2015

A dog that helped soldiers in Afghanistan returns to the U.S. and is adopted by his handler's family after suffering a traumatic experience.

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

No overt commercial promotion.

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

A primary character dies in combat at the start of the film; themes of grieving are central.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Some brief blood or injury scenes related to military action and police confrontations.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Contains occasional mild profanity and some insults consistent with PG rating.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Funeral or memorial observances may include brief traditional religious elements, but religion is not presented as a central theme.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Includes mild teenage crushes and dating dynamics.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Combat memories, danger to people and animals, suspenseful pursuit, and threatening criminals may frighten younger viewers.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Alcohol may appear in limited adult or background social settings, without evidence that substance use is central or glamorized.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Military combat, armed confrontations, attacks, pursuit, and threatening violence are important parts of the story.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist shows significant bravery in protecting his human family.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Inspires curiosity about animal training and service animals.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Includes some diverse secondary casting.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Depicts military working dog culture and the challenges faced by veterans.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

The film emphasizes empathy and the profound bond between animals and humans.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

It emphasizes loyalty, responsibility, perseverance, family support, healing from trauma, and confronting betrayal.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Young characters learn accountability; adults provide guidance despite their own struggles.

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

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in Max would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Max, and what caused that change?
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