Being There (1979) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
A simple-minded gardener named Chance has spent all his life in the Washington D.C. house of an old man. When the man dies, Chance is put out on the street with no knowledge of the world except what he has learned from television.
Rated PG • 1979 • 2h 10m
A simple-minded gardener who knows only television is mistaken for a profound philosopher — and rises to political influence. Peter Sellers received an Oscar nomination. The PG rating covers adult content and the film's satirical edge.
Cast
Is Being There appropriate for kids?
A simple-minded gardener who knows only television is mistaken for a profound philosopher — and rises to political influence. Peter Sellers received an Oscar nomination. The PG rating covers adult content and the film's satirical edge. Read more — free account
Content severity in Being There
What happens in Being There, moment by moment
- 0:08 🔥 Mature Themes 4/10
- 0:22 💬 Language 2/10
- 0:42 🔥 Mature Themes 5/10
Sex and nudity in Being There
The film includes a scene involving a direct sexual advance where a woman touches herself in front of Chance, though he remains oblivious and focused on the television. This moment is played for dry, awkward comedy rather than titillation, emphasizing the protagonist's lack of worldly experience. There is no explicit nudity, but the suggestive nature of the interaction contributes to the film's adult-oriented themes.
Violence and gore in Being There
There is no physical violence or gore depicted in this satirical drama. The film maintains a calm, measured pace and focuses on social interactions rather than conflict or action. As a result, parents do not need to worry about graphic imagery or aggressive behavior throughout the story.
Language in Being There
The dialogue features mild profanity and occasional use of period-typical slurs, which are consistent with the film's 1970s production. Use of terms like 'hell,' 'damn,' and 'bastard' occurs sporadically in professional and social settings. While not excessive, the language reflects the sophisticated and sometimes cynical environment of the high-level political circles portrayed.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Being There
There is no significant use of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs shown by the main characters. Occasional background scenes may depict social drinking at high-society events, but substance use is never a focus of the narrative. The film remains clean in this regard, focusing entirely on the satire of media and personality.
Mature themes in Being There
The film is about how people project what they want to see onto a blank. Chance's television-formed observations are mistaken for wisdom because the powerful want to hear them. A satire of media, celebrity, and political discourse that has only become more relevant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Being There appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests Being There is best for ages 13+. It's rated PG. A simple-minded gardener who knows only television is mistaken for a profound philosopher — and rises to political influence. Peter Sellers received an Oscar nomination. The PG rating covers adult content and the film's…
What age rating does Being There have?
Being There is officially rated PG. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.
What is Being There about?
A simple-minded gardener who knows only television is mistaken for a profound philosopher — and rises to political influence. Peter Sellers received an Oscar nomination. The PG rating covers adult content and the film's satirical edge.
Is there sex or nudity in Being There?
The film includes a scene involving a direct sexual advance where a woman touches herself in front of Chance, though he remains oblivious and focused on the television. This moment is played for dry, awkward comedy rather than titillation, emphasizing the…
How violent is Being There?
There is no physical violence or gore depicted in this satirical drama. The film maintains a calm, measured pace and focuses on social interactions rather than conflict or action. As a result, parents do not need to worry about graphic imagery or aggressive…
Is the language in Being There appropriate for kids?
The dialogue features mild profanity and occasional use of period-typical slurs, which are consistent with the film's 1970s production. Use of terms like 'hell,' 'damn,' and 'bastard' occurs sporadically in professional and social settings. While not…
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Being There?
There is no significant use of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs shown by the main characters. Occasional background scenes may depict social drinking at high-society events, but substance use is never a focus of the narrative. The film remains clean in this…
What mature themes appear in Being There?
The film is about how people project what they want to see onto a blank. Chance's television-formed observations are mistaken for wisdom because the powerful want to hear them. A satire of media, celebrity, and political discourse that has only become more…
How long is Being There?
Being There runs 130 minutes, directed by Hal Ashby, released in 1979.
Where can I read the full Being There parent guide?
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