Kicking & Screaming
Performance & Direction: Kicking & Screaming Review
Last updated: January 23, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Kicking & Screaming (2005) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Family.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Family is often anchored by its ensemble, and Kicking & Screaming features a noteworthy lineup led by Will Ferrell . Supported by the likes of Robert Duvall and Mike Ditka , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Kicking & Screaming (2005) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.8/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Story & Plot Summary: Kicking & Screaming
Quick Plot Summary: Kicking & Screaming is a Family, Comedy film that presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The film presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. Phil Weston has been unathletic his entire life. In college he failed at every sport that he tried out for. It looks like his 10-year old son, Sam, is following in his footsteps. But when Phil's hyper-competitive dad benches Sam, Phil decides to transfer his son to a new team which needs a coach. Phil steps in to be the temporary coach and immediately begins to butt heads with his dad over this new competition in their lives. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Ending Explained: Kicking & Screaming
Ending Breakdown: Kicking & Screaming attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to family resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the family themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Kicking & Screaming reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Kicking & Screaming?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Family films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: Kicking & Screaming
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $45.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $56.1M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Kicking & Screaming Budget
The estimated production budget for Kicking & Screaming is $45.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Kicking & Screaming
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Kicking & Screaming Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Netflix🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Google Play Movies
YouTubeKicking & Screaming Parents Guide & Age Rating
2005 AdvisoryWondering about Kicking & Screaming age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Kicking & Screaming is 95 minutes (1h 35m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.8/10, and global collection metrics, Kicking & Screaming stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2005 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kicking & Screaming worth watching?
Kicking & Screaming is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Family movies. It has a verified rating of 5.8/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Kicking & Screaming parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Kicking & Screaming identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Kicking & Screaming?
The total duration of Kicking & Screaming is 95 minutes, which is approximately 1h 35m long.
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Critic Reviews for Kicking & Screaming
I swear Will Ferrell can make any movie, and it would be hilarious. He's coaching a little kids soccer team. Him and Mike Ditka are pretty funny together.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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