🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 186 (from laksa131)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa186.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short","crawl_time":1776327038,"first_indexed_time":1446718069,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,commonsensemedia!www,\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short s443","src_root_hash":"2436357595599453786","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"The Big Short Movie Review | Common Sense Media","meta_descriptions":["Finance dramedy turns complex ideas into gripping cinema. Read Common Sense Media's The Big Short review, age rating, and parents guide."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Common Sense Media Review\nage 16+\nFinance dramedy turns complex ideas into gripping cinema.\nParents Need to Know\nWhy Age 16+?\nAny Positive Content?\nVideos and Photos\n1:08\n1:08\n(5)\n(17)\nage 14+\nBased on     5 parent reviews\nage 13+\nBased on     17 kid reviews\nKids say the film is a complex yet engaging narrative about the 2008 economic crisis, featuring strong performances and sharp humor. However, it contains significant vulgar language, mild nudity, and scenes set in strip clubs, making it better suited for older teens and adults who can appreciate its intricate themes and moral messages.\ncomplex narrative\nstrong performances\nvulgar language\nmild nudity\nolder audience\nSummarized with AI\nWhat's the Story?\nThe years leading up to the global financial meltdown of 2008 were filled with financial exuberance, as Wall Street firms made billions trading bonds made up of residential mortgages. A handful of investors smelled something amiss, eventually realizing it was all a house of cards that would inevitably crumble. Their bets against these bonds, THE BIG SHORT, eventually paid off hugely -- but only when the entire U.S. economy fell apart, leaving millions homeless and unemployed.\nChristian Bale\n,\nSteve Carell\n,\nRyan Gosling\n, and\nBrad Pitt\nstar as the skeptical investors, all based on real people who were featured in Michael Lewis' best-selling book of the same name.\nIs It Any Good?\nOur review:\nThe Big Short\nis a flashy, quick-witted, and, yes, entertaining film about the housing and banking collapse. But it might just be a little\ntoo\nentertaining, a little too funny for a film that's so sobering. You laugh at all the asides -- and they\nare\nfunny, though perhaps not all of them were necessary -- and then feel terrible for laughing.  (Though we really did enjoy the celebrity-cameo-filled footnotes that explained the dizzying banking and investment maneuvers and products that basically undid the economy.)\nThen again, nervous laughter may just be an appropriate response to a movie about how a small group of outsiders identified a weakness in a system high on arrogance and avarice -- a system that, unfortunately, had such weight that, when it toppled, it took so many innocent and not-so-innocent souls with it. Ultimately,\nThe Big Short\nis whip smart, supported by a script that manages to educate while it amuses. And then there's the powerhouse cast, led by a brilliant Bale as a doctor-turned-hedge-fund-manager who has an ease with numbers and an unease with people.\nTalk to Your Kids About ...\nFamilies can talk about greed. Why were so many banks and bankers so eager to keep selling the mortgage bonds that they must have suspected were flawed? Did the huge profits make everything seem acceptable?\nHow does the film explain very complex financial concepts? Did you learn anything new about Wall Street? Do you think this was an effective way to give viewers a sense of what was happening?\nHow does this based-on-a-true-story film compare to other movies set in the financial world, including the ones that are all fiction (\nWall Street\n) and others that are also based on real events (\nThe Wolf of Wall Street\n)? How accurate do you think\nThe Big Short\nis to what actually happened? Why might filmmakers change some facts?\nHow is\ndrinking\nportrayed? Is it glamorized? Do characters face any consequences?\nMovie Details\nIn theaters\n:\nDecember 11, 2015\nOn DVD or streaming\n:\nMarch 15, 2016\nCast\n:\nBrad Pitt\n,\nChristian Bale\n,\nRyan Gosling\n,\nSteve Carell\nDirector\n:\nAdam McKay\nStudio\n:\nParamount Pictures\nGenre\n:\nDrama\nTopics\n:\nHistory\nRun time\n:\n130 minutes\nMPAA rating\n:\nR\nMPAA explanation\n:\npervasive language and some sexuality\/nudity\nAward\n:\nAcademy Award\nLast updated\n:\nOctober 9, 2025\nDid we miss something on diversity?\nResearch shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new \"Diverse Representations\" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short#main-content)\n\n- [For Parents](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/)\n- [For Educators](https:\/\/www.commonsense.org\/education)\n- [Our Work and Impact](https:\/\/www.commonsense.org\/)\n\nLanguage:\n\nEnglish\n\nEnglish\n\n[Español (próximamente) - volver al inicio](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/es)\n\nSearch\n\n### Or browse by category:\n- [Movies](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n- [TV shows](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/tv-reviews)\n- [Books](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/book-reviews)\n- [Apps](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/app-reviews)\n- [Games](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/game-reviews)\n- [Parenting](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles)\n\n- [Sign in](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/user\/login)\n- [Join us](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/join)\n\n- [Movies](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n  - 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[Digital Skills](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/digital-skills)\n    - [All Articles](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles)\n  - Column 2\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/carpool-coversations_thumbnail-final_1000x563.png)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/carpool-conversations)\n      \n      ### [Carpool Conversations](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/carpool-conversations)\n  - Column 3\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/2-truths-and-ai-answer-key_social-share.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/two-truths-and-ai)\n      \n      ### [Two Truths & AI](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/two-truths-and-ai)\n- [Celebrating Community](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrating-community)\n  - Menu for Latino Content\n    - [Latino Culture](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrate-latino-culture)\n    - 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FACE English Column 4\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/mega-menu_podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories)\n      \n      ### [Podcasts with Diverse Characters and Stories](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories)\n- [Donate](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/donate)\n\n# Parents' Guide to  The Big Short\nMovie   R   2015   130 minutes\n\nSave\n\n![The Big Short Poster Image](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_small.png)\n\n- [Common Sense Says](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short#tab-883630e5-3738-440b-a3fc-0b1318ccd8060)\n- [Parents Say 5 Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short#tab-883630e5-3738-440b-a3fc-0b1318ccd8061)\n- [Kids Say 17 Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short#tab-883630e5-3738-440b-a3fc-0b1318ccd8062)\n\n### Common Sense Media Review\n![S. Jhoanna Robledo](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_1_1_xsmall\/public\/user-pictures\/298605-user-picture.jpg) By  **[S. Jhoanna Robledo](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/bio\/s-jhoanna-robledo)** , based on child development research. [How do we rate?](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission\/about-our-ratings)\n\nage 16+\n\nFinance dramedy turns complex ideas into gripping cinema.\n\n## Parents Need to Know\nParents need to know that *The Big Short* is based on the bestselling book by Michael Lewis. It follows the story of several investors (played by [Christian Bale](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Christian%20Bale), [Steve Carell](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Steve%20Carell), [Ryan Gosling](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Ryan%20Gosling), and\n\n## Why Age 16+?\nLanguage\n\nFrequent swearing throughout, mainly \"f--k,\" \"a--hole,\" and\n\nSex, Romance & Nudity\n\nA few scenes that take place in strip clubs feature topless\/half-dressed women.\n\nProducts & Purchases\n\nMany well-established financial companies are mentioned, including Goldman Sachs\n\nDrinking, Drugs & Smoking\n\nSeveral scenes are set in bars, restaurants, and nightclubs where people are dri\n\nViolence & Scariness\n\nHeated exchanges between people who are losing lots of money. References to pers\n\n## Any Positive Content?\nPositive Messages\n\nMixed messages; the characters profit hugely as the economy crumbles, but their\n\nPositive Role Models\n\nAlthough they bet against the housing market and reap huge gains as the economy\n\n- ### Parents Need to Know\n  Parents need to know that *The Big Short* is based on the bestselling book by Michael Lewis. It follows the story of several investors (played by [Christian Bale](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Christian%20Bale), [Steve Carell](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Steve%20Carell), [Ryan Gosling](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Ryan%20Gosling), and [Brad Pitt](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Brad%20Pitt)) who were among the first to spot warning signs in the real estate market that triggered the global financial meltdown of 2008. By betting against the housing market, they managed to reap huge gains as the economy crumbled, leaving millions out of work and homeless -- which might make some viewers feel pretty conflicted about rooting for them. There's some raucous drinking, plenty of strong language (mainly \"f--k\" and \"s--t\"), and glimpses of topless strippers\/exotic dancers in this finance-themed dramedy, which is best suited for adults and older teens.\n  \n  To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly [Family Movie Night emails](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/newsletters) .\n- ### Language\n  a lot\n  \n  Frequent swearing throughout, mainly \"f--k,\" \"a--hole,\" and \"s--t.\"\n  \n  **Did you know you can flag iffy content?** Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.\n  \n  [Get started](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n  \n  Close\n- ### Sex, Romance & Nudity\n  some\n  \n  A few scenes that take place in strip clubs feature topless\/half-dressed women.\n  \n  **Did you know you can flag iffy content?** Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.\n  \n  [Get started](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n  \n  Close\n- ### Products & Purchases\n  some\n  \n  Many well-established financial companies are mentioned, including Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Countrywide, Bank of America, JPMorgan, and more, with a special focus on Bear Stearns and Lehman Brothers. Mac and Dell computers, BlackBerry and Nokia mobile devices, Bloomberg terminals. Discussion of the high-end restaurant Nobu. Caesar's Palace.\n- ### Drinking, Drugs & Smoking\n  a little\n  \n  Several scenes are set in bars, restaurants, and nightclubs where people are drinking. Some sequences show people celebrating big financial deals with liquor.\n  \n  **Did you know you can flag iffy content?** Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.\n  \n  [Get started](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n  \n  Close\n- ### Violence & Scariness\n  very little\n  \n  Heated exchanges between people who are losing lots of money. References to personal loss, including via suicide.\n  \n  **Did you know you can flag iffy content?** Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.\n  \n  [Get started](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n  \n  Close\n- ### Positive Messages\n  very little\n  \n  Mixed messages; the characters profit hugely as the economy crumbles, but their story also shows how It's tough to be the first person to realize something important, because everyone else will be convinced you're mistaken or crazy. It's also hard to stand by your position in the face of consistent opposition; it's all too easy to start to doubt yourself.\n- ### Positive Role Models\n  very little\n  \n  Although they bet against the housing market and reap huge gains as the economy crumbles, the main characters are portrayed as smart enough to realize that something is dangerously amiss in the global financial system, confident enough to place huge bets on their idea, and tough enough to defend a position that was initially losing money, with everyone telling them they're fools.\n## Where to Watch\n\n## Videos and Photos\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#1](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/the-big-short-1.jpg)\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#2](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/the-big-short-2.jpg)\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#3](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/bigshort3.jpg)\n- ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/video-thumbnails\/the-big-short.jpg)\n  \n  The Big Short  \n  *Movie Review*\n  \n  1:08\n- ![The Big Short Trailer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/externals\/a383492311a0dbec995a783a78dd07d8.jpg)\n  \n  The Big Short\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#1](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/the-big-short-1.jpg)\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#2](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/the-big-short-2.jpg)\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#3](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/bigshort3.jpg)\n- ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_small.png)\n  \n  The Big Short  \n  *Movie Review*\n  \n  1:08\n- ![The Big Short Trailer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_small.png)\n  \n  The Big Short\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#1](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_small.png)\n### The Big Short\n\n## Parent and Kid Reviews\n[See all](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short\/user-reviews\/adult)\n\n- [Parents Say (5)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short#tab-a1aedf0f-87cf-4cd9-9699-6c1fcc63ed2b0)\n- [Kids Say (17)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short#tab-a1aedf0f-87cf-4cd9-9699-6c1fcc63ed2b1)\n\nage 14+\n\nBased on 5 parent reviews\n\n![]()\n\n###\n\n![]()\n\n###\n\n[See all 5 parent reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short\/user-reviews\/adult)\n\nage 13+\n\nBased on 17 kid reviews\n\nKids say the film is a complex yet engaging narrative about the 2008 economic crisis, featuring strong performances and sharp humor. However, it contains significant vulgar language, mild nudity, and scenes set in strip clubs, making it better suited for older teens and adults who can appreciate its intricate themes and moral messages.\n\n- complex narrative\n- strong performances\n- vulgar language\n- mild nudity\n- older audience\n##### ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_1_1_small.png) Summarized with AI\n\n![]()\n\n###\n\n![]()\n\n###\n\n[See all 17 kid reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short\/user-reviews\/child)\n\n## What's the Story?\nThe years leading up to the global financial meltdown of 2008 were filled with financial exuberance, as Wall Street firms made billions trading bonds made up of residential mortgages. A handful of investors smelled something amiss, eventually realizing it was all a house of cards that would inevitably crumble. Their bets against these bonds, THE BIG SHORT, eventually paid off hugely -- but only when the entire U.S. economy fell apart, leaving millions homeless and unemployed. [Christian Bale](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Christian%20Bale), [Steve Carell](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Steve%20Carell), [Ryan Gosling](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Ryan%20Gosling), and [Brad Pitt](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Brad%20Pitt) star as the skeptical investors, all based on real people who were featured in Michael Lewis' best-selling book of the same name.\n\nShow more\n\n## Is It Any Good?\n**Our review:**\n\n**Parents say** (  [5 Parent Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short\/user-reviews\/adult)  ):\n\n**Kids say** (  [17 Kid Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short\/user-reviews\/child)  ):\n\n*The Big Short* is a flashy, quick-witted, and, yes, entertaining film about the housing and banking collapse. But it might just be a little *too* entertaining, a little too funny for a film that's so sobering. You laugh at all the asides -- and they *are* funny, though perhaps not all of them were necessary -- and then feel terrible for laughing. (Though we really did enjoy the celebrity-cameo-filled footnotes that explained the dizzying banking and investment maneuvers and products that basically undid the economy.)\n\nThen again, nervous laughter may just be an appropriate response to a movie about how a small group of outsiders identified a weakness in a system high on arrogance and avarice -- a system that, unfortunately, had such weight that, when it toppled, it took so many innocent and not-so-innocent souls with it. Ultimately, *The Big Short* is whip smart, supported by a script that manages to educate while it amuses. And then there's the powerhouse cast, led by a brilliant Bale as a doctor-turned-hedge-fund-manager who has an ease with numbers and an unease with people.\n\nShow more\n\n## Talk to Your Kids About ...\n- Families can talk about greed. Why were so many banks and bankers so eager to keep selling the mortgage bonds that they must have suspected were flawed? Did the huge profits make everything seem acceptable?\n- How does the film explain very complex financial concepts? Did you learn anything new about Wall Street? Do you think this was an effective way to give viewers a sense of what was happening?\n- How does this based-on-a-true-story film compare to other movies set in the financial world, including the ones that are all fiction (*[Wall Street](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/wall-street)*) and others that are also based on real events (*[The Wolf of Wall Street](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-wolf-of-wall-street)*)? How accurate do you think *The Big Short* is to what actually happened? Why might filmmakers change some facts?\n- How is [drinking](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/when-is-it-ok-for-my-kid-to-watch-shows-that-have-alcohol-drugs-and-smoking-in-them) portrayed? Is it glamorized? Do characters face any consequences?\n\nShow more\n\n## Movie Details\n- **In theaters** :  December 11, 2015\n- **On DVD or streaming** :  March 15, 2016\n- **Cast** :  [Brad Pitt](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Brad%20Pitt) ,  [Christian Bale](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Christian%20Bale) ,  [Ryan Gosling](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Ryan%20Gosling) ,  [Steve Carell](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Steve%20Carell)\n- **Director** :  [Adam McKay](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Adam%20McKay)\n- **Studio** :  [Paramount Pictures](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/studio\/paramount-pictures-29178)\n- **Genre** :  [Drama](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/genre\/drama-73)\n- **Topics** :  [History](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/detail\/history-62598)\n- **Run time** :  130 minutes\n- **MPAA rating** :  R\n- **MPAA explanation** :  pervasive language and some sexuality\/nudity\n- **Award** :  [Academy Award](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/product-award\/academy-award-993)\n- **Last updated** :  October 9, 2025\n\nShow more\n\n## Did we miss something on diversity?\nResearch shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new \"Diverse Representations\" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.\n\nThe Big Short\n\n### Suggest an Update\n\nYour privacy is important to us. We won't share this comment without your permission. If you chose to provide an email address, it will only be used to contact you about your comment. See our [privacy policy](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission\/privacy-policy) .\n\n![The Big Short Poster Image](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_2_3_small\/public\/product-images\/csm-movie\/the-big-short.jpg)\n\n## What to Watch Next\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n[See all](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/biopic-movies)\n\n## Biopic Movies\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n[See all](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/best-documentaries-and-docuseries)\n\n## Best Documentaries and Docuseries\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n[See all recommended movie lists](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-lists)\n\n## Related Topics\n- [History](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/detail\/history-62598)\n\nWant suggestions based on your streaming services? 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\\#2](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/the-big-short-2.jpg)\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#3](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/bigshort3.jpg)\n- ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/video-thumbnails\/the-big-short.jpg)\n  \n  1:08\n- ![The Big Short Trailer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/externals\/a383492311a0dbec995a783a78dd07d8.jpg)\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#1](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/the-big-short-1.jpg)\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#2](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/the-big-short-2.jpg)\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#3](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/bigshort3.jpg)\n- ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/video-thumbnails\/the-big-short.jpg)\n  \n  1:08\n- ![The Big Short Trailer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/externals\/a383492311a0dbec995a783a78dd07d8.jpg)\n- ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \\#1](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/the-big-short-1.jpg)\n\n- [(5)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short#tab-a1aedf0f-87cf-4cd9-9699-6c1fcc63ed2b0)\n- [(17)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-big-short#tab-a1aedf0f-87cf-4cd9-9699-6c1fcc63ed2b1)\n\nage 14+\n\nBased on 5 parent reviews\n\n![]()\n\n![]()\n\nage 13+\n\nBased on 17 kid reviews\n\nKids say the film is a complex yet engaging narrative about the 2008 economic crisis, featuring strong performances and sharp humor. However, it contains significant vulgar language, mild nudity, and scenes set in strip clubs, making it better suited for older teens and adults who can appreciate its intricate themes and moral messages.\n\n- complex narrative\n- strong performances\n- vulgar language\n- mild nudity\n- older audience\n##### ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_1_1_small.png) Summarized with AI\n\n![]()\n\n![]()\n\n## What's the Story?\nThe years leading up to the global financial meltdown of 2008 were filled with financial exuberance, as Wall Street firms made billions trading bonds made up of residential mortgages. A handful of investors smelled something amiss, eventually realizing it was all a house of cards that would inevitably crumble. Their bets against these bonds, THE BIG SHORT, eventually paid off hugely -- but only when the entire U.S. economy fell apart, leaving millions homeless and unemployed. [Christian Bale](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Christian%20Bale), [Steve Carell](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Steve%20Carell), [Ryan Gosling](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Ryan%20Gosling), and [Brad Pitt](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Brad%20Pitt) star as the skeptical investors, all based on real people who were featured in Michael Lewis' best-selling book of the same name.\n\n## Is It Any Good?\n**Our review:**\n\n*The Big Short* is a flashy, quick-witted, and, yes, entertaining film about the housing and banking collapse. But it might just be a little *too* entertaining, a little too funny for a film that's so sobering. You laugh at all the asides -- and they *are* funny, though perhaps not all of them were necessary -- and then feel terrible for laughing. (Though we really did enjoy the celebrity-cameo-filled footnotes that explained the dizzying banking and investment maneuvers and products that basically undid the economy.)\n\nThen again, nervous laughter may just be an appropriate response to a movie about how a small group of outsiders identified a weakness in a system high on arrogance and avarice -- a system that, unfortunately, had such weight that, when it toppled, it took so many innocent and not-so-innocent souls with it. Ultimately, *The Big Short* is whip smart, supported by a script that manages to educate while it amuses. And then there's the powerhouse cast, led by a brilliant Bale as a doctor-turned-hedge-fund-manager who has an ease with numbers and an unease with people.\n\n## Talk to Your Kids About ...\n- Families can talk about greed. Why were so many banks and bankers so eager to keep selling the mortgage bonds that they must have suspected were flawed? Did the huge profits make everything seem acceptable?\n- How does the film explain very complex financial concepts? Did you learn anything new about Wall Street? Do you think this was an effective way to give viewers a sense of what was happening?\n- How does this based-on-a-true-story film compare to other movies set in the financial world, including the ones that are all fiction (*[Wall Street](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/wall-street)*) and others that are also based on real events (*[The Wolf of Wall Street](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/the-wolf-of-wall-street)*)? How accurate do you think *The Big Short* is to what actually happened? Why might filmmakers change some facts?\n- How is [drinking](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/when-is-it-ok-for-my-kid-to-watch-shows-that-have-alcohol-drugs-and-smoking-in-them) portrayed? Is it glamorized? Do characters face any consequences?\n\n## Movie Details\n- **In theaters** :  December 11, 2015\n- **On DVD or streaming** :  March 15, 2016\n- **Cast** :  [Brad Pitt](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Brad%20Pitt) ,  [Christian Bale](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Christian%20Bale) ,  [Ryan Gosling](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Ryan%20Gosling) ,  [Steve Carell](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Steve%20Carell)\n- **Director** :  [Adam McKay](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Adam%20McKay)\n- **Studio** :  [Paramount Pictures](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/studio\/paramount-pictures-29178)\n- **Genre** :  [Drama](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/genre\/drama-73)\n- **Topics** :  [History](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/detail\/history-62598)\n- **Run time** :  130 minutes\n- **MPAA rating** :  R\n- **MPAA explanation** :  pervasive language and some sexuality\/nudity\n- **Award** :  [Academy Award](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/product-award\/academy-award-993)\n- **Last updated** :  October 9, 2025\n\n## Did we miss something on diversity?\nResearch shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new \"Diverse Representations\" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Common Sense Media Review age 16+ Finance dramedy turns complex ideas into gripping cinema. Parents Need to Know Why Age 16+? Any Positive Content? Videos and Photos 1:08 1:08 (5) (17) age 14+ Based on 5 parent reviews age 13+ Based on 17 kid reviews Kids say the film is a complex yet engaging narrative about the 2008 economic crisis, featuring strong performances and sharp humor. However, it contains significant vulgar language, mild nudity, and scenes set in strip clubs, making it better suited for older teens and adults who can appreciate its intricate themes and moral messages. complex narrative strong performances vulgar language mild nudity older audience Summarized with AI What's the Story? The years leading up to the global financial meltdown of 2008 were filled with financial exuberance, as Wall Street firms made billions trading bonds made up of residential mortgages. A handful of investors smelled something amiss, eventually realizing it was all a house of cards that would inevitably crumble. Their bets against these bonds, THE BIG SHORT, eventually paid off hugely -- but only when the entire U.S. economy fell apart, leaving millions homeless and unemployed. Christian Bale , Steve Carell , Ryan Gosling , and Brad Pitt star as the skeptical investors, all based on real people who were featured in Michael Lewis' best-selling book of the same name. Is It Any Good? Our review: The Big Short is a flashy, quick-witted, and, yes, entertaining film about the housing and banking collapse. But it might just be a little too entertaining, a little too funny for a film that's so sobering. You laugh at all the asides -- and they are funny, though perhaps not all of them were necessary -- and then feel terrible for laughing. (Though we really did enjoy the celebrity-cameo-filled footnotes that explained the dizzying banking and investment maneuvers and products that basically undid the economy.) Then again, nervous laughter may just be an appropriate response to a movie about how a small group of outsiders identified a weakness in a system high on arrogance and avarice -- a system that, unfortunately, had such weight that, when it toppled, it took so many innocent and not-so-innocent souls with it. Ultimately, The Big Short is whip smart, supported by a script that manages to educate while it amuses. And then there's the powerhouse cast, led by a brilliant Bale as a doctor-turned-hedge-fund-manager who has an ease with numbers and an unease with people. Talk to Your Kids About ... Families can talk about greed. Why were so many banks and bankers so eager to keep selling the mortgage bonds that they must have suspected were flawed? Did the huge profits make everything seem acceptable? How does the film explain very complex financial concepts? Did you learn anything new about Wall Street? Do you think this was an effective way to give viewers a sense of what was happening? How does this based-on-a-true-story film compare to other movies set in the financial world, including the ones that are all fiction ( Wall Street ) and others that are also based on real events ( The Wolf of Wall Street )? How accurate do you think The Big Short is to what actually happened? Why might filmmakers change some facts? How is drinking portrayed? Is it glamorized? Do characters face any consequences? Movie Details In theaters : December 11, 2015 On DVD or streaming : March 15, 2016 Cast : Brad Pitt , Christian Bale , Ryan Gosling , Steve Carell Director : Adam McKay Studio : Paramount Pictures Genre : Drama Topics : History Run time : 130 minutes MPAA rating : R MPAA explanation : pervasive language and some sexuality/nudity Award : Academy Award Last updated : October 9, 2025 Did we miss something on diversity? Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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FACE English Column 4 - [![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_xsmall/public/menu-addons/mega-menu_podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories.jpg)](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/lists/podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories) ### [Podcasts with Diverse Characters and Stories](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/lists/podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories) - [Donate](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/donate) # Parents' Guide to The Big Short Movie R 2015 130 minutes Save ![The Big Short Poster Image](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_small.png) - [Common Sense Says](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short#tab-883630e5-3738-440b-a3fc-0b1318ccd8060) - [Parents Say 5 Reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short#tab-883630e5-3738-440b-a3fc-0b1318ccd8061) - [Kids Say 17 Reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short#tab-883630e5-3738-440b-a3fc-0b1318ccd8062) ### Common Sense Media Review ![S. Jhoanna Robledo](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1_xsmall/public/user-pictures/298605-user-picture.jpg) By [S. Jhoanna Robledo](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/bio/s-jhoanna-robledo) , based on child development research. [How do we rate?](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/about-us/our-mission/about-our-ratings) age 16+ Finance dramedy turns complex ideas into gripping cinema. ## Parents Need to Know Parents need to know that The Big Short is based on the bestselling book by Michael Lewis. It follows the story of several investors (played by [Christian Bale](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Christian%20Bale), [Steve Carell](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Steve%20Carell), [Ryan Gosling](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Ryan%20Gosling), and ## Why Age 16+? Language Frequent swearing throughout, mainly "f--k," "a--hole," and Sex, Romance & Nudity A few scenes that take place in strip clubs feature topless/half-dressed women. Products & Purchases Many well-established financial companies are mentioned, including Goldman Sachs Drinking, Drugs & Smoking Several scenes are set in bars, restaurants, and nightclubs where people are dri Violence & Scariness Heated exchanges between people who are losing lots of money. References to pers ## Any Positive Content? Positive Messages Mixed messages; the characters profit hugely as the economy crumbles, but their Positive Role Models Although they bet against the housing market and reap huge gains as the economy - ### Parents Need to Know Parents need to know that The Big Short is based on the bestselling book by Michael Lewis. It follows the story of several investors (played by [Christian Bale](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Christian%20Bale), [Steve Carell](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Steve%20Carell), [Ryan Gosling](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Ryan%20Gosling), and [Brad Pitt](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Brad%20Pitt)) who were among the first to spot warning signs in the real estate market that triggered the global financial meltdown of 2008. By betting against the housing market, they managed to reap huge gains as the economy crumbled, leaving millions out of work and homeless -- which might make some viewers feel pretty conflicted about rooting for them. There's some raucous drinking, plenty of strong language (mainly "f--k" and "s--t"), and glimpses of topless strippers/exotic dancers in this finance-themed dramedy, which is best suited for adults and older teens. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly [Family Movie Night emails](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/newsletters) . - ### Language a lot Frequent swearing throughout, mainly "f--k," "a--hole," and "s--t." Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide. [Get started](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews) Close - ### Sex, Romance & Nudity some A few scenes that take place in strip clubs feature topless/half-dressed women. Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide. [Get started](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews) Close - ### Products & Purchases some Many well-established financial companies are mentioned, including Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Countrywide, Bank of America, JPMorgan, and more, with a special focus on Bear Stearns and Lehman Brothers. Mac and Dell computers, BlackBerry and Nokia mobile devices, Bloomberg terminals. Discussion of the high-end restaurant Nobu. Caesar's Palace. - ### Drinking, Drugs & Smoking a little Several scenes are set in bars, restaurants, and nightclubs where people are drinking. Some sequences show people celebrating big financial deals with liquor. Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide. [Get started](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews) Close - ### Violence & Scariness very little Heated exchanges between people who are losing lots of money. References to personal loss, including via suicide. Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide. [Get started](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews) Close - ### Positive Messages very little Mixed messages; the characters profit hugely as the economy crumbles, but their story also shows how It's tough to be the first person to realize something important, because everyone else will be convinced you're mistaken or crazy. It's also hard to stand by your position in the face of consistent opposition; it's all too easy to start to doubt yourself. - ### Positive Role Models very little Although they bet against the housing market and reap huge gains as the economy crumbles, the main characters are portrayed as smart enough to realize that something is dangerously amiss in the global financial system, confident enough to place huge bets on their idea, and tough enough to defend a position that was initially losing money, with everyone telling them they're fools. ## Where to Watch ## Videos and Photos - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#1](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/the-big-short-1.jpg) - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#2](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/the-big-short-2.jpg) - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#3](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/bigshort3.jpg) - ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/video-thumbnails/the-big-short.jpg) The Big Short Movie Review 1:08 - ![The Big Short Trailer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/externals/a383492311a0dbec995a783a78dd07d8.jpg) The Big Short - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#1](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/the-big-short-1.jpg) - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#2](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/the-big-short-2.jpg) - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#3](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/bigshort3.jpg) - ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_16_9_small.png) The Big Short Movie Review 1:08 - ![The Big Short Trailer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_16_9_small.png) The Big Short - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#1](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_16_9_small.png) ### The Big Short ## Parent and Kid Reviews [See all](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short/user-reviews/adult) - [Parents Say (5)](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short#tab-a1aedf0f-87cf-4cd9-9699-6c1fcc63ed2b0) - [Kids Say (17)](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short#tab-a1aedf0f-87cf-4cd9-9699-6c1fcc63ed2b1) age 14+ Based on 5 parent reviews ![]() ### ![]() ### [See all 5 parent reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short/user-reviews/adult) age 13+ Based on 17 kid reviews Kids say the film is a complex yet engaging narrative about the 2008 economic crisis, featuring strong performances and sharp humor. However, it contains significant vulgar language, mild nudity, and scenes set in strip clubs, making it better suited for older teens and adults who can appreciate its intricate themes and moral messages. - complex narrative - strong performances - vulgar language - mild nudity - older audience ##### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_1_1_small.png) Summarized with AI ![]() ### ![]() ### [See all 17 kid reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short/user-reviews/child) ## What's the Story? The years leading up to the global financial meltdown of 2008 were filled with financial exuberance, as Wall Street firms made billions trading bonds made up of residential mortgages. A handful of investors smelled something amiss, eventually realizing it was all a house of cards that would inevitably crumble. Their bets against these bonds, THE BIG SHORT, eventually paid off hugely -- but only when the entire U.S. economy fell apart, leaving millions homeless and unemployed. [Christian Bale](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Christian%20Bale), [Steve Carell](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Steve%20Carell), [Ryan Gosling](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Ryan%20Gosling), and [Brad Pitt](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Brad%20Pitt) star as the skeptical investors, all based on real people who were featured in Michael Lewis' best-selling book of the same name. Show more ## Is It Any Good? Our review: Parents say ( [5 Parent Reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short/user-reviews/adult) ): Kids say ( [17 Kid Reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short/user-reviews/child) ): The Big Short is a flashy, quick-witted, and, yes, entertaining film about the housing and banking collapse. But it might just be a little too entertaining, a little too funny for a film that's so sobering. You laugh at all the asides -- and they are funny, though perhaps not all of them were necessary -- and then feel terrible for laughing. (Though we really did enjoy the celebrity-cameo-filled footnotes that explained the dizzying banking and investment maneuvers and products that basically undid the economy.) Then again, nervous laughter may just be an appropriate response to a movie about how a small group of outsiders identified a weakness in a system high on arrogance and avarice -- a system that, unfortunately, had such weight that, when it toppled, it took so many innocent and not-so-innocent souls with it. Ultimately, The Big Short is whip smart, supported by a script that manages to educate while it amuses. And then there's the powerhouse cast, led by a brilliant Bale as a doctor-turned-hedge-fund-manager who has an ease with numbers and an unease with people. Show more ## Talk to Your Kids About ... - Families can talk about greed. Why were so many banks and bankers so eager to keep selling the mortgage bonds that they must have suspected were flawed? Did the huge profits make everything seem acceptable? - How does the film explain very complex financial concepts? Did you learn anything new about Wall Street? Do you think this was an effective way to give viewers a sense of what was happening? - How does this based-on-a-true-story film compare to other movies set in the financial world, including the ones that are all fiction ([Wall Street](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/wall-street)) and others that are also based on real events ([The Wolf of Wall Street](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-wolf-of-wall-street))? How accurate do you think The Big Short is to what actually happened? Why might filmmakers change some facts? - How is [drinking](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/when-is-it-ok-for-my-kid-to-watch-shows-that-have-alcohol-drugs-and-smoking-in-them) portrayed? Is it glamorized? Do characters face any consequences? Show more ## Movie Details - In theaters : December 11, 2015 - On DVD or streaming : March 15, 2016 - Cast : [Brad Pitt](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Brad%20Pitt) , [Christian Bale](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Christian%20Bale) , [Ryan Gosling](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Ryan%20Gosling) , [Steve Carell](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Steve%20Carell) - Director : [Adam McKay](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Adam%20McKay) - Studio : [Paramount Pictures](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/category/movie/studio/paramount-pictures-29178) - Genre : [Drama](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/category/movie/genre/drama-73) - Topics : [History](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/category/movie/detail/history-62598) - Run time : 130 minutes - MPAA rating : R - MPAA explanation : pervasive language and some sexuality/nudity - Award : [Academy Award](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/product-award/academy-award-993) - Last updated : October 9, 2025 Show more ## Did we miss something on diversity? Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update. The Big Short ### Suggest an Update Your privacy is important to us. We won't share this comment without your permission. If you chose to provide an email address, it will only be used to contact you about your comment. See our [privacy policy](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/about-us/our-mission/privacy-policy) . ![The Big Short Poster Image](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_2_3_small/public/product-images/csm-movie/the-big-short.jpg) ## What to Watch Next ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### [See all](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/lists/biopic-movies) ## Biopic Movies ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### [See all](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/lists/best-documentaries-and-docuseries) ## Best Documentaries and Docuseries ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### [See all recommended movie lists](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-lists) ## Related Topics - [History](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/category/movie/detail/history-62598) Want suggestions based on your streaming services? 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Readable Markdown	### Common Sense Media Review age 16+ Finance dramedy turns complex ideas into gripping cinema. Parents Need to Know Why Age 16+? Any Positive Content? ## Videos and Photos - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#1](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/the-big-short-1.jpg) - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#2](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/the-big-short-2.jpg) - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#3](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/bigshort3.jpg) - ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/video-thumbnails/the-big-short.jpg) 1:08 - ![The Big Short Trailer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/externals/a383492311a0dbec995a783a78dd07d8.jpg) - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#1](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/the-big-short-1.jpg) - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#2](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/the-big-short-2.jpg) - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#3](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/bigshort3.jpg) - ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/video-thumbnails/the-big-short.jpg) 1:08 - ![The Big Short Trailer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/externals/a383492311a0dbec995a783a78dd07d8.jpg) - ![The Big Short Movie: Scene \#1](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/the-big-short-1.jpg) - [(5)](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short#tab-a1aedf0f-87cf-4cd9-9699-6c1fcc63ed2b0) - [(17)](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-big-short#tab-a1aedf0f-87cf-4cd9-9699-6c1fcc63ed2b1) age 14+ Based on 5 parent reviews ![]() ![]() age 13+ Based on 17 kid reviews Kids say the film is a complex yet engaging narrative about the 2008 economic crisis, featuring strong performances and sharp humor. However, it contains significant vulgar language, mild nudity, and scenes set in strip clubs, making it better suited for older teens and adults who can appreciate its intricate themes and moral messages. - complex narrative - strong performances - vulgar language - mild nudity - older audience ##### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_1_1_small.png) Summarized with AI ![]() ![]() ## What's the Story? The years leading up to the global financial meltdown of 2008 were filled with financial exuberance, as Wall Street firms made billions trading bonds made up of residential mortgages. A handful of investors smelled something amiss, eventually realizing it was all a house of cards that would inevitably crumble. Their bets against these bonds, THE BIG SHORT, eventually paid off hugely -- but only when the entire U.S. economy fell apart, leaving millions homeless and unemployed. [Christian Bale](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Christian%20Bale), [Steve Carell](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Steve%20Carell), [Ryan Gosling](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Ryan%20Gosling), and [Brad Pitt](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Brad%20Pitt) star as the skeptical investors, all based on real people who were featured in Michael Lewis' best-selling book of the same name. ## Is It Any Good? Our review: The Big Short is a flashy, quick-witted, and, yes, entertaining film about the housing and banking collapse. But it might just be a little too entertaining, a little too funny for a film that's so sobering. You laugh at all the asides -- and they are funny, though perhaps not all of them were necessary -- and then feel terrible for laughing. (Though we really did enjoy the celebrity-cameo-filled footnotes that explained the dizzying banking and investment maneuvers and products that basically undid the economy.) Then again, nervous laughter may just be an appropriate response to a movie about how a small group of outsiders identified a weakness in a system high on arrogance and avarice -- a system that, unfortunately, had such weight that, when it toppled, it took so many innocent and not-so-innocent souls with it. Ultimately, The Big Short is whip smart, supported by a script that manages to educate while it amuses. And then there's the powerhouse cast, led by a brilliant Bale as a doctor-turned-hedge-fund-manager who has an ease with numbers and an unease with people. ## Talk to Your Kids About ... - Families can talk about greed. Why were so many banks and bankers so eager to keep selling the mortgage bonds that they must have suspected were flawed? Did the huge profits make everything seem acceptable? - How does the film explain very complex financial concepts? Did you learn anything new about Wall Street? Do you think this was an effective way to give viewers a sense of what was happening? - How does this based-on-a-true-story film compare to other movies set in the financial world, including the ones that are all fiction ([Wall Street](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/wall-street)) and others that are also based on real events ([The Wolf of Wall Street](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/the-wolf-of-wall-street))? How accurate do you think The Big Short is to what actually happened? Why might filmmakers change some facts? - How is [drinking](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/when-is-it-ok-for-my-kid-to-watch-shows-that-have-alcohol-drugs-and-smoking-in-them) portrayed? Is it glamorized? Do characters face any consequences? ## Movie Details - In theaters : December 11, 2015 - On DVD or streaming : March 15, 2016 - Cast : [Brad Pitt](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Brad%20Pitt) , [Christian Bale](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Christian%20Bale) , [Ryan Gosling](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Ryan%20Gosling) , [Steve Carell](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Steve%20Carell) - Director : [Adam McKay](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Adam%20McKay) - Studio : [Paramount Pictures](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/category/movie/studio/paramount-pictures-29178) - Genre : [Drama](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/category/movie/genre/drama-73) - Topics : [History](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/category/movie/detail/history-62598) - Run time : 130 minutes - MPAA rating : R - MPAA explanation : pervasive language and some sexuality/nudity - Award : [Academy Award](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/product-award/academy-award-993) - Last updated : October 9, 2025 ## Did we miss something on diversity? Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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