12 Years a Slave (2013) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
In the pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup, a free black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery. Facing cruelty as well as unexpected kindnesses Solomon struggles not only to stay alive, but to retain his dignity. In the twelfth year of his unforgettable odyssey, Solomon’s chance meeting with a Canadian abolitionist will forever alter his life.
Rated R • 2013 • 2h 14m
12 Years a Slave depicts the harrowing true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man abducted into slavery in the antebellum South. The film is rated R for its unflinching portrayal of the extreme brutality, systemic violence, and dehumanization inherent in chattel slavery. Parents should be aware of frequent, graphic imagery including torture, sexual violence, and pervasive racial slurs. It is intended for a mature audience only and… Sign up for the full guide
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Is 12 Years a Slave appropriate for kids?
12 Years a Slave depicts the harrowing true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man abducted into slavery in the antebellum South. The film is rated R for its unflinching portrayal of the extreme brutality, systemic violence, and dehumanization inherent in chattel slavery… Read more — free account
Content severity in 12 Years a Slave
What happens in 12 Years a Slave, moment by moment
- 0:05 ♥ Sex & Nudity 8/10
- 0:18 ⚔ Violence & Gore 7/10
- 0:30 ♥ Sex & Nudity 9/10
Sex and nudity in 12 Years a Slave
The film contains explicit sexual situations, including the rape of a slave by her master. Nudity is pervasive, including full-frontal shots during slave auctions and group bathing scenes, as well as brief glimpses during acts of violence.
Violence and gore in 12 Years a Slave
Violence is graphic, frequent, and severe. It includes brutal, prolonged whipping scenes that show skin lacerations and blood, a hanging sequence, stabbings, and various physical assaults. The gore is unflinching and intended to convey the reality of slave life.
Language in 12 Years a Slave
The film features extremely frequent use of the n-word, reflecting the historical setting. Profanity such as 'fuck,' 'shit,' and 'bitch' also appears throughout the dialogue.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in 12 Years a Slave
Alcohol consumption is a recurring element, often associated with abusive behaviors by slave owners. Characters are shown drinking casually in various scenes, and one character discusses being fired for alcohol-related issues.
Mature themes in 12 Years a Slave
Themes include racism, systemic cruelty, the loss of identity, and the struggle for human dignity. The story centers on the trauma of forced separation from family and the physical and mental toll of slavery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 12 Years a Slave appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests 12 Years a Slave is best for ages 17+. It's rated R. 12 Years a Slave depicts the harrowing true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man abducted into slavery in the antebellum South. The film is rated R for its unflinching portrayal of the extreme brutality, systemic…
What age rating does 12 Years a Slave have?
12 Years a Slave is officially rated R. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 17+.
What is 12 Years a Slave about?
12 Years a Slave depicts the harrowing true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man abducted into slavery in the antebellum South. The film is rated R for its unflinching portrayal of the extreme brutality, systemic violence, and dehumanization inherent in chattel slavery. Parents should be aware of frequent…
Is there sex or nudity in 12 Years a Slave?
The film contains explicit sexual situations, including the rape of a slave by her master. Nudity is pervasive, including full-frontal shots during slave auctions and group bathing scenes, as well as brief glimpses during acts of violence.
How violent is 12 Years a Slave?
Violence is graphic, frequent, and severe. It includes brutal, prolonged whipping scenes that show skin lacerations and blood, a hanging sequence, stabbings, and various physical assaults. The gore is unflinching and intended to convey the reality of slave…
Is the language in 12 Years a Slave appropriate for kids?
The film features extremely frequent use of the n-word, reflecting the historical setting. Profanity such as 'fuck,' 'shit,' and 'bitch' also appears throughout the dialogue.
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in 12 Years a Slave?
Alcohol consumption is a recurring element, often associated with abusive behaviors by slave owners. Characters are shown drinking casually in various scenes, and one character discusses being fired for alcohol-related issues.
What mature themes appear in 12 Years a Slave?
Themes include racism, systemic cruelty, the loss of identity, and the struggle for human dignity. The story centers on the trauma of forced separation from family and the physical and mental toll of slavery.
How long is 12 Years a Slave?
12 Years a Slave runs 134 minutes, directed by Steve McQueen, released in 2013.
Where can I read the full 12 Years a Slave parent guide?
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