About Elly (2009) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
The mysterious disappearance of a kindergarten teacher during a picnic in the north of Iran is followed by a series of misadventures for her fellow travelers.
Rated NR • 2009 • 1h 59m
Asghar Farhadi's "About Elly" is an unrated but intensely stressful Iranian psychological drama. Its mature content stems not from graphic visuals but from sustained, almost unbearable tension and complex ethical dilemmas following the disappearance of a young woman named Elly during a trip with friends. The film's rating equivalents (PG-13, 12A) are due to strong thematic material involving pervasive lies, guilt, social pressure, and… Sign up for the full guide
Cast
Is About Elly appropriate for kids?
Asghar Farhadi's "About Elly" is an unrated but intensely stressful Iranian psychological drama. Its mature content stems not from graphic visuals but from sustained, almost unbearable tension and complex ethical dilemmas following the disappearance of a young woman named Elly… Read more — free account
Content severity in About Elly
What happens in About Elly, moment by moment
- 0:15 🔥 Mature Themes 3/10
- 0:28 🔥 Mature Themes 4/10
- 0:49 ⚔ Violence & Gore 6/10
Sex and nudity in About Elly
None. There is no sexual content, innuendo, or nudity in the film.
Violence and gore in About Elly
Violence is infrequent but occurs in short, impactful bursts. A young boy is seen nearly drowning and must be frantically resuscitated in a tense sequence. In a moment of frustration during an argument, a man strikes his wife. Later, another man arrives and punches someone in the face, causing a bloody nose. The violence is not graphic but is emotionally charged.
Language in About Elly
Language is very mild and infrequent. The English subtitles contain at least one use of "shit" and one instance of "bastard," both spoken during moments of high stress and anger.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in About Elly
None. Characters are not shown drinking, smoking, or using any drugs.
Mature themes in About Elly
The film is built on strong, mature themes of deception, guilt, and the social pressure to protect one's honor. Characters tell a cascade of lies, from small white lies to devastating betrayals, with severe consequences. The film unflinchingly explores profound grief, emotional distress, and the intense psychological toll of uncertainty and moral compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is About Elly appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests About Elly is best for ages 13+. It's rated NR. Asghar Farhadi's "About Elly" is an unrated but intensely stressful Iranian psychological drama. Its mature content stems not from graphic visuals but from sustained, almost unbearable tension and complex ethical…
What age rating does About Elly have?
About Elly is officially rated NR. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.
What is About Elly about?
Asghar Farhadi's "About Elly" is an unrated but intensely stressful Iranian psychological drama. Its mature content stems not from graphic visuals but from sustained, almost unbearable tension and complex ethical dilemmas following the disappearance of a young woman named Elly during a trip with friends. The film's…
Is there sex or nudity in About Elly?
None. There is no sexual content, innuendo, or nudity in the film.
How violent is About Elly?
Violence is infrequent but occurs in short, impactful bursts. A young boy is seen nearly drowning and must be frantically resuscitated in a tense sequence. In a moment of frustration during an argument, a man strikes his wife. Later, another man arrives and…
Is the language in About Elly appropriate for kids?
Language is very mild and infrequent. The English subtitles contain at least one use of "shit" and one instance of "bastard," both spoken during moments of high stress and anger.
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in About Elly?
None. Characters are not shown drinking, smoking, or using any drugs.
What mature themes appear in About Elly?
The film is built on strong, mature themes of deception, guilt, and the social pressure to protect one's honor. Characters tell a cascade of lies, from small white lies to devastating betrayals, with severe consequences. The film unflinchingly explores…
How long is About Elly?
About Elly runs 119 minutes, directed by Asghar Farhadi, released in 2009.
Where can I read the full About Elly parent guide?
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