Who doesn’t love a good underdog tale? Netflix’s latest family feature, The Main Event, delivers just that. My four children are obsessed, and honestly, I’m quite enjoying it too. This film brings a delightful mix of humor and heart, making it a perfect pick during our extended time at home.
Plot Overview
The story follows eleven-year-old Leo, portrayed by Seth Carr, as he navigates the tricky tween years. He faces challenges like bullying, having a crush, and managing a strained relationship with his dad. Everything shifts when Leo stumbles upon a hilariously foul-smelling antique mask. (You might recognize Carr as young Killmonger from Black Panther or as Gabrielle Union’s son from Breaking In.) When he wears this mask, not only does his voice take on a comical tone, but it also grants him incredible strength and agility. So, what will he do with his new abilities?
Family Dynamics
Leo’s family dynamic is unique; after his mother left, he lives with his father and his grandmother, played by Tichina Arnold. When he learns about his dad’s financial struggles, Leo devises a plan: he could use his magical mask to enter a local fighting tournament, win the prize money, and help his dad. But can he keep his powers a secret while trying to win?
The film features a fun cast of characters, including Leo’s tech-savvy grandma, lovingly nicknamed “TMZ” by his dad for her social media antics. His fellow competitors are quirky yet approachable, making them suitable for younger audiences. At home, Leo is just a regular kid—doing homework, sharing meals, and hanging out with friends—but in the ring, he transforms into Kid Chaos.
Relatable Themes
Like any great children’s movie, The Main Event offers relatable themes. Leo’s multiracial family adds depth; his father is white, his mother is black, and he’s raised by his black grandmother. His close circle of friends reflects diversity too, including the girl he has a crush on.
An older fighter named Smooth Operator becomes Leo’s mentor rather than an adversary, which adds a touching element to the story. Their intergenerational friendship highlights the importance of role models across races and ages—plus, there’s a heartwarming twist at the end.
Lessons Learned
Leo also learns about friendships and crushes. At one point, his newfound fame leads him to prioritize a publicity event over a talent show with friends, showcasing the values of apologizing and forgiveness. He also tackles bullying, facing off against two dishonest competitors in the tournament. Kids will love that Leo applies his problem-solving skills instead of relying solely on his strength to defeat them. While he follows his grandma’s advice, the film still packs in plenty of action that keeps young viewers entertained.
Family-Friendly Fun
Parents can rest easy; the fight scenes are filled with comedic moments rather than violence. Expect more silly stunts and exaggerated antics than actual fighting. In fact, at one point, a character “attacks” Leo with an uproarious fart. It’s ridiculous? Absolutely. But we all know that kids can’t get enough of that kind of humor.
A Perfect Timing
The timing of this movie couldn’t be better. With everyone feeling a bit worn out from the usual routines, The Main Event offers a fresh and funny escape. Sure, Frozen 2 is a classic, but sometimes you just need a break from the same old songs. We needed something to uplift our spirits amid all the craziness of COVID-19.
So, gather the popcorn and sleeping bags, because The Main Event is poised to become your family’s new go-to film. We could all use something—or someone—to root for these days. Just be prepared for your kids to want to watch it on repeat!
Further Reading
For more engaging content, check out our other blog post here. And if you’re exploring options for family planning, visit Make a Mom for their expert resources. Additionally, you can find valuable information on fertility treatments at ACOG.
Summary
Netflix’s The Main Event is a heartwarming and humorous film perfect for family movie night, featuring relatable characters and a delightful blend of action and comedy. It addresses themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery, making it an enjoyable watch for both kids and parents alike.
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