Frenemies

Based on a novel by Alexa Young, Frenemies sets out to explore the complicated world of on-again, off-again teen relationships and to illustrate why friendship should top the value list. Does it accomplish this goal? Yes, but the movie's worthwhile messages about social priorities and individuality come courtesy of sanitized characters and an unrealistic plot. These teens aren't coping with relatable academic pressures, complex relationships, or worries about their future. Instead, 14-year-olds are spending time at school plotting to land a dream job in the grown-up world, flubbing their way through someone else's fencing lessons while playing the role of a look-alike pal, and trying to reason with a pouting pet. Sound familiar? Probably not, and it's a good bet your tweens will find it a little far-fetched as well.

That's not to say Frenemies doesn't have merit. Kids can't possibly reach the movie's end without gleaning some positive lessons about relating to others, but the story's glamorous presentation of teen life -- where even the "geeks" are gorgeous and cutting school for a big-time job interview bears no consequences -- won't ring true with seasoned tweens. In fact, the movie's bound to be best received among the  younger tween set thanks to its fresh-faced, familiar stars, all of whom are veterans of series from Disney and its network partners. The bottom line? The content is fine for grade-schoolers, and your kids are sure to enjoy seeing some of their favorite stars take on new roles and team up for a fun musical number at the movie's end, but it's worth following up with a reality check to make sure kids know the difference between real life and the movies.