The Unsinkable Molly Brown

Parents need to know that The Unsinkable Molly Brown, with its vibrant singing and dancing, was the crowning achievement in Debbie Reynold's onscreen musical career as a leading lady. The story is "based upon" the true rags-to-riches story of America's Molly Brown, raised in a two-room, backwoods hovel in 1867, who became a wealthy socialite and philanthropist. In 1912, Molly survived the sinking of the Titanic, behaving heroically, as legend has it, in the process. In this version of the tale, Molly as a very young woman is surrounded by an assortment of exaggerated country "yokels," both hard-drinking and quick-to-fight. Several brawls and scuffles, some of them fueled by alcohol, are played comically, often turning into lively dance numbers. In only one instance is there a physical assault that is to be taken seriously (Spoiler Alert: a forceful slap). A few mild swear words ("damn," "hell") are heard. Several romantic scenes include: kissing, a married couple beginning to undress, and some brief, veiled references to infidelity. In one scene, Molly is shown bathing in a river -- no nudity, but it's clear that she's been observed by a stranger with a sense of humor. Several painted-up prostitutes appear in barroom scenes and are stand-out members of the dancing team. Later scenes involve typically snooty upper-class stereotypes, who are the film's main antagonists. Overall, however, the movie is a lighthearted, music-filled, coming-of-age story with a heroine who learns important lessons about being herself, finding true happiness, and standing up for what she believes is right.