“THE GIVER”

Rating: PG-13 for a mature thematic image and some sci-fi action/violence

What it’s about: In a world where much of life’s sufferings and struggles have vanished, an elderly man passes on “real” life lessons to a teen.

The kid-attractor factor: It’s the Lois Lowry YA-sci-fi novel come to life with attractive young newcomers and Oscar winners Jeff Bridges and Meryl Streep.

Good lessons/bad lessons: “If you can’t feel, what’s the point?”

Violence: Eugenics and euthanasia are practiced.

Language: “Precise” and profanity free.

Sex: A little kissing.

Drugs: Everyone is medicated.

Parents’ advisory: Mature and very thought-provoking, probably over the heads of anybody under 10.

“STEP UP ALL IN”

Rating: PG-13 for some language and suggestive material

What it’s about: Those dancing “Step Up” kids, adults now, suit up for “one last shot” at glory and dancing careers in Las Vegas.

The kid-attractor factor: Twerking, krunking, popping and locking by great dancers in various states of undress.

Good lessons/bad lessons: Life is like “sheep poop. Sometimes, you just have to shovel through it.”

Violence: None.

Language: Just a few scattered profanities.

Sex: Flirting, bumping and grinding.

Drugs: In Vegas? Nooooo.

Parents’ advisory: As mild-mannered and tween-to-teen friendly as any of these movies, OK for 10-and-up.