REALITY BITES

REALITY BITES offers an insight into the lives and loves of the “twentysomething” MTV generation. Its four recent college graduates are wrestling with work, relationships, identity, and the meaning of adulthood. Viewers from that generation may recognize the characters’ lackadaisical attitudes and drunken philosophies.

But the film’s insight comes wrapped in serious moral problems. Its characters engage in adultery, promiscuity, and sexual immorality, while alcohol and marijuana use are part of the picture. The story also includes obscenities, profanity, and one homosexual character.

For adults who want to examine this portrait of Generation X at home, the film may offer material for discernment. For children, young teens, and families seeking a morally sound movie night, choose something else.

After graduating from college, four friends face the uncertainty of work, love, and adulthood. Lelaina, Vicky, Sammy, and Troy each respond differently to the pressures of this new stage of life.

Lelaina shares a home with Vicky and becomes involved with Troy, an unemployed pseudo-philosopher. Their situation changes when Michael, an honest and hard-working man, enters Lelaina’s life.

Three stars means REALITY BITES has worthwhile qualities but falls short of excellence. The film provides an insight into the “twentysomething” MTV generation and explores the experiences of four individuals immediately after college.

Its portrait of Generation X may connect with viewers who recognize the characters’ attitudes and philosophies. However, the source review offers few specific craft observations beyond its generational focus.

REALITY BITES presents a humanistic portrait of young adults trying to find meaning after college. Its characters are shaped by the entertainment industry and by the cultural world that formed their generation. The film views their lackadaisical attitudes, relationships, and drunken philosophies as central parts of this experience.

The story gives significant space to sexual immorality, including adultery and promiscuity. It also includes a homosexual character, alcohol use, and marijuana smoking. Rather than offering a biblical account of human identity, marriage, or self-control, the film follows characters making personal choices within a culture that has largely walked away from earlier ideals.

The film’s central longing is for connection and direction during the move into adulthood. Scripture points beyond self-definition and cultural formation: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Romans 12:2).

REALITY BITES may help adults consider how a generation was shaped, but its sexual immorality, profanity, and substance use make it unsuitable for children and young teens. Watch only at home, if you can engage it with discernment. Otherwise, choose from our family-friendly picks.