1917 Parents Guide: A Film Review & Age Rating Analysis

1917 Parents Guide: A Film Review & Age Rating Analysis

1917 is a 2019 war epic directed by Sam Mendes and co-written by Mendes and Krysty Wilson-Cairns. The film stars George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman as British soldiers who, during the First World War, are assigned to deliver a message across enemy territory. Upon its release, the film gained critical acclaim for its stunning cinematography, gripping narrative, and powerful performances. However, with its graphic violence and intense subject matter, it's essential for parents to understand the age-appropriateness of 1917 before allowing their children to watch it.

This informatical article aims to provide a comprehensive 1917 parents guide, exploring the film's content, age rating, and potential impact on young viewers. By examining the film's themes, violence, language, and emotional intensity, parents can make informed decisions about whether 1917 is suitable for their children.

While 1917 is a critically acclaimed film, it is not without its intense and potentially disturbing content. The film's realistic depiction of war includes graphic violence, strong language, and emotionally charged scenes that may be overwhelming for younger viewers. As such, it is imperative for parents to carefully consider the film's content before deciding whether their children should watch it.

1917 parents guide

Understanding the film's content is crucial before deciding if it's suitable for your child.

  • Graphic war violence
  • Strong language
  • Intense emotional scenes
  • Realistic depiction of war
  • R-rated for graphic content
  • Not suitable for young children
  • Consider child's maturity level
  • Watch with parental guidance
  • Discuss film's themes afterwards

Parents should carefully consider the film's content and their child's maturity level before allowing them to watch 1917.

Graphic war violence

1917 is a war film that depicts the horrors of World War I with unflinching realism. The film contains graphic and disturbing scenes of violence, including:

  • Soldiers being shot, stabbed, and blown up

    The film depicts the brutality of trench warfare, with soldiers being killed in a variety of gruesome ways. Gunshot wounds, explosions, and bayonet charges are all shown in graphic detail.

  • Dead bodies and body parts

    The film does not shy away from showing the aftermath of battle, with dead bodies and body parts strewn across the battlefield. Some scenes show soldiers being dismembered or mutilated.

  • Close-up shots of injuries

    The film often uses close-up shots to show the injuries sustained by soldiers. These shots can be particularly disturbing, as they highlight the physical and emotional trauma experienced by the characters.

  • Realistic depiction of death

    1917 does not romanticize war or glorify violence. The film shows death as it is: sudden, brutal, and often meaningless. This realism can be difficult to watch, but it is an important reminder of the horrors of war.

Parents should be aware that the graphic war violence in 1917 may be too intense for some viewers, especially younger children. It is important to consider your child's maturity level and sensitivity to violence before deciding whether or not to allow them to watch the film.

Strong language

1917 contains strong language, including profanity and racial slurs. While the language is not constant throughout the film, there are several instances where characters use offensive language.

  • Profanity

    Characters in the film use profanity, including words like "fuck," "shit," and "damn." These words are used in moments of stress, anger, and frustration, reflecting the harsh realities of war.

  • Racial slurs

    The film also includes racial slurs, which are used by some characters to refer to the enemy. These slurs are a reminder of the racism and prejudice that existed during World War I.

  • Other offensive language

    In addition to profanity and racial slurs, the film also contains other offensive language, such as insults and derogatory terms. This language can be hurtful and upsetting, especially for sensitive viewers.

  • Contextual use of language

    It is important to note that the strong language in 1917 is used in a historical context. The film is set during World War I, a time when such language was more common and socially acceptable. However, this does not make the language any less offensive or harmful.

Parents should be aware of the strong language in 1917 and consider whether or not their children are mature enough to handle it. The film may not be suitable for younger viewers or those who are sensitive to offensive language.

Intense emotional scenes

1917 is an emotionally charged film that explores the horrors of war and the resilience of the human spirit. The film contains several intense emotional scenes that may be difficult for some viewers to watch.

  • Death and loss

    The film deals with the death and loss of many characters, both major and minor. These deaths are often sudden and unexpected, and they can be very upsetting for viewers. The film also explores the emotional toll that war takes on the survivors, as they struggle to cope with the loss of their loved ones.

  • Fear and anxiety

    The film captures the fear and anxiety that soldiers experience in the trenches and on the battlefield. The constant threat of death and injury is palpable, and the film does an excellent job of conveying the psychological toll that war takes on its participants.

  • Grief and despair

    The film also explores the grief and despair that war leaves in its wake. The characters in the film are all deeply affected by the war, and they struggle to find hope and meaning in a world that has been torn apart by violence.

  • Moments of hope and resilience

    Despite the darkness and despair, the film also contains moments of hope and resilience. The characters find strength in their bonds with each other, and they refuse to give up, even in the face of overwhelming odds. These moments provide a powerful reminder of the human spirit's ability to endure even the most difficult circumstances.

Parents should be aware that the intense emotional scenes in 1917 may be too much for some viewers, especially younger children. It is important to consider your child's maturity level and emotional sensitivity before deciding whether or not to allow them to watch the film.

Realistic depiction of war

1917 is praised for its realistic depiction of war. The film does not shy away from the horrors of trench warfare, and it offers a unflinching look at the physical and psychological toll that war takes on its participants.

  • Trench warfare

    The film accurately portrays the conditions of trench warfare, with soldiers living in cramped and unsanitary conditions, constantly exposed to the threat of attack. The film shows the soldiers dealing with mud, rats, and disease, as well as the psychological strain of living in constant fear.

  • Casualties of war

    The film does not shy away from showing the casualties of war. Soldiers are killed, wounded, and dismembered, and the film does not flinch from showing the graphic reality of these injuries. The film also shows the emotional impact of these casualties on the soldiers who survive.

  • Psychological effects of war

    1917 also explores the psychological effects of war on soldiers. The characters in the film experience a range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, guilt, and despair. The film shows how war can damage the minds of even the strongest people.

  • The futility of war

    The film also conveys the futility of war. It shows how war is a senseless waste of human life, and how it leaves a trail of destruction and suffering in its wake. The film ends with a powerful message about the importance of peace.

Parents should be aware that the realistic depiction of war in 1917 may be too intense for some viewers, especially younger children. The film is rated R for graphic violence, strong language, and disturbing images. Parents should consider their child's maturity level and sensitivity to violence before deciding whether or not to allow them to watch the film.

R-rated for graphic content

1917 is rated R by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) for graphic content. This means that the film contains material that is considered inappropriate for children under 17. The MPAA assigns ratings to films based on their content, and an R rating indicates that the film contains violence, gore, nudity, strong language, or other adult themes.

In the case of 1917, the graphic content includes:

  • Graphic violence: The film contains graphic and realistic depictions of violence, including soldiers being shot, stabbed, and dismembered. There are also scenes of dead bodies and body parts.
  • Strong language: The film contains strong language, including profanity and racial slurs.
  • Disturbing images: The film contains disturbing images, such as the aftermath of battle and dead soldiers.

The MPAA's R rating for 1917 is a warning to parents that the film contains content that may be too intense for younger viewers. Parents should consider their child's maturity level and sensitivity to violence and other disturbing content before deciding whether or not to allow them to watch the film.

It is important to note that the R rating for 1917 is not a ban on the film. It is simply a warning to parents that the film contains content that may be inappropriate for children. Parents can still choose to allow their children to watch the film, but they should be aware of the film's content and make sure that their children are prepared for it.

Parents who are unsure whether or not 1917 is appropriate for their child can read reviews of the film or watch clips online to get a better idea of the film's content. They can also talk to their child about the film and explain the R rating to them. Ultimately, it is up to parents to decide whether or not their child is ready to watch 1917.

Not suitable for young children

1917 is not suitable for young children. The film's R rating indicates that it contains content that is inappropriate for children under 17. This content includes graphic violence, strong language, and disturbing images.

Young children are not emotionally or psychologically mature enough to handle the intense and disturbing content in 1917. The film's graphic violence and disturbing images may be too much for them to handle, and they may have difficulty understanding the film's complex themes.

In addition, the film's strong language may be confusing or upsetting to young children. They may not understand the meaning of the words, or they may be offended by the language's harshness.

For all of these reasons, 1917 is not suitable for young children. Parents should not allow their children to watch the film until they are old enough to handle its mature content.

Here are some specific examples of why 1917 is not suitable for young children:

  • The film contains graphic and realistic depictions of violence. Soldiers are shot, stabbed, and dismembered. There are also scenes of dead bodies and body parts.
  • The film contains strong language, including profanity and racial slurs.
  • The film contains disturbing images, such as the aftermath of battle and dead soldiers.
  • The film deals with complex themes, such as war, death, and loss. Young children may have difficulty understanding these themes.

Parents should be aware of the film's content before deciding whether or not to allow their children to watch it. 1917 is a powerful and moving film, but it is not appropriate for young children.

Consider child's maturity level

When deciding whether or not to allow your child to watch 1917, it is important to consider their maturity level. Some children may be ready to handle the film's mature content, while others may not be. Here are some factors to consider when assessing your child's maturity level:

  • Age: Age is not always a reliable indicator of maturity, but it can be a starting point. In general, children under the age of 17 are not considered to be mature enough to handle the content in 1917.
  • Emotional maturity: Some children are more emotionally mature than others. If your child is able to handle intense emotions and disturbing images, they may be ready to watch 1917. However, if your child is easily upset or frightened, they may not be ready for the film.
  • Life experiences: Children who have experienced trauma or loss may be more sensitive to the content in 1917. It is important to consider your child's life experiences when deciding whether or not to allow them to watch the film.
  • Media literacy: Children who are media literate are better able to understand and process the content in films. They are also more likely to be able to identify and discuss the film's themes and messages. If your child is not media literate, you may want to watch 1917 with them and help them to understand the film's content.

It is also important to talk to your child about 1917 before they watch the film. Explain to them that the film is rated R for graphic content, and that it contains violence, strong language, and disturbing images. Ask your child if they have any questions about the film, and answer their questions honestly. If your child seems hesitant or unsure about watching the film, it is best to err on the side of caution and not allow them to watch it.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to allow your child to watch 1917 is up to you. Consider your child's maturity level, life experiences, and media literacy when making your decision.

Watch with parental guidance

If you decide to allow your child to watch 1917, it is important to watch the film with them and provide parental guidance. This will help your child to understand the film's content and to process the film's themes and messages.

  • Talk to your child about the film before and after they watch it. Explain to them that the film is rated R for graphic content, and that it contains violence, strong language, and disturbing images. Ask your child if they have any questions about the film, and answer their questions honestly.
  • Be prepared to answer your child's questions about the film. Your child may have questions about the film's violence, its historical context, or its themes. Be prepared to answer these questions in a way that is appropriate for your child's age and maturity level.
  • Help your child to understand the film's themes and messages. 1917 is a complex film with a number of important themes, such as war, death, and loss. Help your child to understand these themes and to discuss them with you.
  • Reassure your child that they are safe. After watching 1917, your child may feel scared or anxious. Reassure them that they are safe and that the film is not real. You can also help your child to find healthy ways to cope with their emotions, such as talking about their feelings or playing a game.

Watching 1917 with your child can be a valuable bonding experience. It can also be an opportunity for you to teach your child about important life lessons, such as the importance of peace and the futility of war.

Discuss film's themes afterwards

After watching 1917 with your child, it is important to discuss the film's themes and messages. This will help your child to understand the film's deeper meaning and to make connections between the film and their own lives.

  • Ask your child what they thought of the film. What were their favorite parts? What did they find confusing or upsetting? This will help you to gauge your child's understanding of the film and to identify any areas where they may need more explanation.
  • Discuss the film's themes with your child. Some of the film's key themes include war, death, loss, and the futility of violence. Ask your child what they think about these themes and how they relate to the film's story.
  • Help your child to connect the film to their own lives. Ask your child if they have ever experienced anything similar to what the characters in the film experienced. This will help your child to see the film's relevance to their own lives and to learn from the film's lessons.
  • Encourage your child to express their feelings about the film. After watching 1917, your child may feel a variety of emotions, such as sadness, anger, or fear. Encourage your child to express these feelings and to talk about them with you. This will help your child to process their emotions and to learn how to cope with them in a healthy way.

Discussing the film's themes and messages with your child is a great way to help them to learn from the film and to grow as a person. It can also be a valuable bonding experience for you and your child.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions that parents may have about 1917:

Question 1: Is 1917 appropriate for children?
Answer 1: No, 1917 is not appropriate for children. The film is rated R for graphic content, including violence, strong language, and disturbing images. These elements may be too intense for children to handle.

Question 2: What is the film's message?
Answer 2: 1917 is a powerful anti-war film that shows the devastating impact of war on soldiers and their families. The film also explores the themes of courage, sacrifice, and the importance of human connection.

Question 3: How can I talk to my child about the film?
Answer 3: Before and after your child watches the film, talk to them about the film's content and themes. Explain to them that the film is rated R for graphic content, and that it contains violence, strong language, and disturbing images. Ask your child if they have any questions about the film, and answer their questions honestly. You can also help your child to understand the film's themes by discussing them with them.

Question 4: What are some of the film's key themes?
Answer 4: Some of the film's key themes include war, death, loss, and the futility of violence. The film also explores the themes of courage, sacrifice, and the importance of human connection.

Question 5: Is it okay to watch the film with my child?
Answer 5: If you decide to allow your child to watch 1917, it is important to watch the film with them and provide parental guidance. This will help your child to understand the film's content and to process the film's themes and messages.

Question 6: How can I help my child to cope with the film's content?
Answer 6: After watching 1917, your child may feel a variety of emotions, such as sadness, anger, or fear. Encourage your child to express these feelings and to talk about them with you. This will help your child to process their emotions and to learn how to cope with them in a healthy way. You can also help your child to cope with the film's content by discussing the film's themes and messages with them.

Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
Talking to your child about 1917 is a great way to help them to understand the film's content and to learn from the film's lessons. It can also be a valuable bonding experience for you and your child.

In addition to talking to your child about the film, there are a few other things you can do to help them cope with its content. These tips can help your child to process the film's emotions and to learn from the film's lessons.

Tips

In addition to talking to your child about 1917, there are a few other things you can do to help them cope with its content. These tips can help your child to process the film's emotions and to learn from the film's lessons.

Tip 1: Watch the film with your child. This will allow you to monitor your child's reaction to the film and to answer any questions they may have. You can also help your child to understand the film's themes and messages by discussing them with them.

Tip 2: Encourage your child to express their feelings. After watching 1917, your child may feel a variety of emotions, such as sadness, anger, or fear. Encourage your child to express these feelings and to talk about them with you. This will help your child to process their emotions and to learn how to cope with them in a healthy way.

Tip 3: Help your child to find healthy ways to cope with their emotions. Some healthy ways to cope with emotions include talking about them, writing about them, or engaging in physical activity. Help your child to find healthy ways to cope with their emotions so that they can avoid developing unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Tip 4: Reassure your child that they are safe. After watching 1917, your child may feel scared or anxious. Reassure them that they are safe and that the film is not real. You can also help your child to find healthy ways to cope with their fear or anxiety.

Closing Paragraph for Tips:
By following these tips, you can help your child to cope with the content of 1917 and to learn from the film's lessons. Talking to your child about the film, encouraging them to express their feelings, and helping them to find healthy coping mechanisms are all important ways to help your child to process the film's content and to grow from it.

1917 is a powerful and moving film, but it is not appropriate for all children. If you decide to allow your child to watch the film, it is important to be prepared to answer their questions and to help them to cope with the film's content. By following the tips in this article, you can help your child to have a positive experience watching 1917.

Conclusion

1917 is a powerful and moving film, but it is not appropriate for all children. The film's R rating indicates that it contains graphic content that may be too intense for younger viewers. Parents should carefully consider their child's maturity level and sensitivity to violence before deciding whether or not to allow them to watch the film.

If you decide to allow your child to watch 1917, it is important to watch the film with them and to provide parental guidance. This will help your child to understand the film's content and to process the film's themes and messages. You can also help your child to cope with the film's content by talking to them about the film, encouraging them to express their feelings, and helping them to find healthy coping mechanisms.

1917 is a film that can stay with viewers long after they have seen it. The film's powerful message about the futility of war and the importance of peace is one that all people, regardless of age, can learn from.

Closing Message:
If you are a parent, I encourage you to talk to your child about 1917 before and after they watch the film. This will help your child to understand the film's content and to learn from the film's lessons. 1917 is a powerful film that can have a positive impact on your child's life, but it is important to watch the film with your child and to provide parental guidance.

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