Max Keeble's Big Move MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +2 Content: +1

Max Keeble (Alex D. Linz) has big plans for his first year in junior high with his friends Megan (Zena Grey) and Robe (Josh Peck). But Max is also the target of school bullies along with an unfriendly ice cream salesman. And encounters with the bullies draw dictator-like Principal Jindraikes (Larry Miller) attention to Max as well. So when Maxs dad announces a move to Chicago, Max sees a chance to get even with all the bullies in his life. But while helping Max sabotage the Principals breathspray with animal pheromones, Megan discovers Jindraikes misuse of school funds to build a stadium. And the stadium threatens the local animal shelter. But after Maxs plans for revenge are unleashed, his dad cancels the move. Can Max survive the backlash of his actions? And what about the friends he would have left behind to suffer the consequences? This slapstick comedy is sure to be a hit with young crowds, but older audiences will probably avoid the juvenile antics.

Although more light-hearted and definitely more acceptable than the R-rated BULLY, this story also deals with young people who terrorize other students. One bully exercises physical terror by throwing Max in the mud and then a trashcan. Another takes money from smaller students while apparently giving successful stock tips to teachers who ignore his acts. But Max’s dad also seems bullied by demands from his boss. He explains to Max that sometimes people submit to things they don’t like, to provide for others. But Max encourages his dad to stand up against oppression. Good messages are scattered through several scenes. In another scene, an older janitor tells Max that “any kid can make a mess, but it takes a man to clean it up.” And Max even tells his supporters that hit-and-run tactics don’t take courage and revenge makes them no better than the bullies. Despite the good messages, parents may worry about imitative behaviors as Max breaks into school, disrupts classes and starts a food fight in the cafeteria. However, Max learns the true meaning of friendship and the rewards of helping others, which makes MAX KEEBLE’S BIG MOVE a step in the right direction.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: Buena Vista (Disney), 500 S. Buena Vista St., Burbank, CA 91521