PG-13

Apprentice to Murder

They thought it was the devil. The police said it was murder.

1988 • 97 min • Drama · Horror · Mystery · Thriller

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Synopsis

Pennsylvania, 1928. Billy Kelly, a sixteen-year old boy, meets a mysterious traveler claiming he's the messenger of God. Falling under under the spell of this "doctor" Reese, he will soon discover Reese has murderous plans for his future. Based on a true story.

Our family guide

Best from age 14

Movie Knight Score

38 reviews

51 Audience · 38 · 100%

In 1920s Pennsylvania, a teenage boy falls under the influence of a charismatic but dangerous "doctor" who claims to be a messenger of God. The boy soon discovers the man has sinister intentions, leading to a dark and mysterious journey. Based on a true, unsettling story, this film explores themes of manipulation and belief.

Violence & peril: 5/10
Language: 2/10
Drinking, drugs & smoking: 3/10
Romance & sensuality: 1/10
Scary moments: 6/10

Heads up

Portrayal of a charismatic cult-like figure
Instances of implied violence and death
Some unsettling or disturbing imagery

What it models well

The dangers of manipulation
Questioning authority
The importance of critical thinking

Talk about it after

The difference between faith and fanaticism
How to recognize and resist peer pressure
The real-life events that inspired the film

Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for Apprentice to Murder. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.