Poster for Buck

Buck (2011) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

An examination of the life of acclaimed 'horse whisperer' Buck Brannaman, who recovered from years of child abuse to become a well-known expert in the interactions between horses and people.

Rated PG • 2011 • 1h 29m

7.2
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
12+

The documentary "Buck" received its PG rating primarily for its mature thematic content, which includes direct and frank discussions of severe childhood abuse. The film centers on horse trainer Buck Brannaman, who recounts being physically beaten by his alcoholic father. Viewers should be prepared for one brief but impactful scene of violence where a horse attacks a person, causing a bloody injury to their head. The film also contains… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Buck Brannaman
Buck Brannaman
Robert Redford
Robert Redford
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Is Buck appropriate for kids?

The documentary "Buck" received its PG rating primarily for its mature thematic content, which includes direct and frank discussions of severe childhood abuse. The film centers on horse trainer Buck Brannaman, who recounts being physically beaten by his alcoholic father. Viewers… Read more — free account

Content severity in Buck

Sex None 0/10
Violence Strong 6/10
Language Mild 2/10
Substances Mild 1/10
Themes Strong 6/10

What happens in Buck, moment by moment

  1. 0:08 🔥 Mature Themes 5/10
  2. 0:19 ⚔ Violence & Gore 3/10
  3. 0:26 💬 Language 2/10
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Sex and nudity in Buck

None. The film contains no sexual content or nudity.

Violence and gore in Buck

Violence is infrequent but includes one notable scene. A horse, agitated by its owner, rears up and bites a man on the forehead, resulting in a visible and bloody gash. There is also brief archival footage showing older, harsher methods of horse training that some may find upsetting.

Language in Buck

Mild language is present. The IMDb guide notes instances of words like "hell" and "damn," as well as some religious exclamations, scattered throughout the interviews and narration.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Buck

Substance use is not depicted on screen. Thematic references are made to Buck's father being an alcoholic, which is discussed as a component of his abusive behavior. There is also a passing comment about making an alcoholic drink in a context of ranch hospitality.

Mature themes in Buck

The central theme is the lasting impact of severe child abuse. Buck and others speak candidly and in some detail about the physical beatings he and his brother endured from their father. The documentary explores how this trauma shaped his philosophy of empathy and non-violence in training animals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Buck appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Buck is best for ages 12+. It's rated PG. The documentary "Buck" received its PG rating primarily for its mature thematic content, which includes direct and frank discussions of severe childhood abuse. The film centers on horse trainer Buck Brannaman, who…

What age rating does Buck have?

Buck is officially rated PG. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 12+.

What is Buck about?

The documentary "Buck" received its PG rating primarily for its mature thematic content, which includes direct and frank discussions of severe childhood abuse. The film centers on horse trainer Buck Brannaman, who recounts being physically beaten by his alcoholic father. Viewers should be prepared for one brief but…

Is there sex or nudity in Buck?

None. The film contains no sexual content or nudity.

How violent is Buck?

Violence is infrequent but includes one notable scene. A horse, agitated by its owner, rears up and bites a man on the forehead, resulting in a visible and bloody gash. There is also brief archival footage showing older, harsher methods of horse training that…

Is the language in Buck appropriate for kids?

Mild language is present. The IMDb guide notes instances of words like "hell" and "damn," as well as some religious exclamations, scattered throughout the interviews and narration.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Buck?

Substance use is not depicted on screen. Thematic references are made to Buck's father being an alcoholic, which is discussed as a component of his abusive behavior. There is also a passing comment about making an alcoholic drink in a context of ranch…

What mature themes appear in Buck?

The central theme is the lasting impact of severe child abuse. Buck and others speak candidly and in some detail about the physical beatings he and his brother endured from their father. The documentary explores how this trauma shaped his philosophy of…

How long is Buck?

Buck runs 89 minutes, directed by Cindy Meehl, released in 2011.

Where can I read the full Buck parent guide?

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