“Flipped” is a terrific movie that falls short as a family-friendly film in the language department. The story itself features young love as Juli Baker falls for Bryce Loski when he and his family move next door. The story is well rounded. Bryce ignores Juli until later when he has romantic eyes for her. She is not sure about her feelings at the time and it becomes his turn to wait.

There is plenty of charm in the form of the characters who are so vividly brought to life, particularly by lead actors Madeline Carroll (Juli) and Callan McAuliffe (Bryce). Most of the story takes place in the early sixties and by eighth grade the two young teens both have feelings for one another but don’t know how to let the other one know. Juli takes delight in collecting eggs from the chickens she cares for and she gives Bryce and his family free eggs every week. Little does she know that Bryce’s father is fearful about possible salmonella poisoning and doesn’t want the eggs. Bryce accepts them from Juli and promptly throws them into the garbage every week after she leaves. When she finds out, it is one of a few hurdles they will have to clear in order to find a lasting relationship.

We were charmed by this story which alludes to a more innocent time and yet reflects the same fears teens face today in fitting in and dealing with the confusion of blossoming love. We are, regrettably, unable to award the movie our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal due to three incidents of strong language.