Carol (2015) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
In 1950s New York, a department-store clerk who dreams of a better life falls for an older, married woman.
Rated R • 2015 • 1h 58m
A young aspiring photographer falls for an older married woman in 1950s New York. The R rating is for a brief sexual scene and the film's frank depiction of lesbian love in an era when it was persecuted. A film of extraordinary elegance and emotional restraint — one of the great love stories on this list.
Cast
Is Carol appropriate for kids?
A young aspiring photographer falls for an older married woman in 1950s New York. The R rating is for a brief sexual scene and the film's frank depiction of lesbian love in an era when it was persecuted. A film of extraordinary elegance and emotional restraint — one of the great… Read more — free account
Content severity in Carol
What happens in Carol, moment by moment
- 0:15 🔥 Mature Themes 5/10
- 0:25 🍷 Substances 2/10
- 0:45 💬 Language 2/10
Sex and nudity in Carol
A brief, tasteful sexual scene between the two women. The film's eroticism is largely expressed through longing glances and restrained physical contact rather than explicit content.
Violence and gore in Carol
There is no physical violence or gore depicted in the film. The conflict remains entirely psychological and social, focusing on the legal and emotional pressures placed on the central couple. Any tension is derived from the threat of societal consequences rather than physical harm.
Language in Carol
Mild language, consistent with R rating. The film's period restraint extends to its language.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Carol
Characters are frequently seen smoking cigarettes and consuming alcohol in various social settings, reflecting the 1950s period setting. Cocktails and wine are served at dinners and lounges throughout the film, though the consumption is portrayed as part of standard adult social behavior. There are no depictions of drug use or extreme intoxication that lead to loss of control.
Mature themes in Carol
A lesbian relationship in 1950s America — the legal and social consequences are depicted honestly. A woman losing custody of her child because of her sexuality. The courage required to choose love over social safety. The film is ultimately hopeful but the obstacles are real and painful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carol appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests Carol is best for ages 15+. It's rated R. A young aspiring photographer falls for an older married woman in 1950s New York. The R rating is for a brief sexual scene and the film's frank depiction of lesbian love in an era when it was persecuted. A film of…
What age rating does Carol have?
Carol is officially rated R. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 15+.
What is Carol about?
A young aspiring photographer falls for an older married woman in 1950s New York. The R rating is for a brief sexual scene and the film's frank depiction of lesbian love in an era when it was persecuted. A film of extraordinary elegance and emotional restraint — one of the great love stories on this list.
Is there sex or nudity in Carol?
A brief, tasteful sexual scene between the two women. The film's eroticism is largely expressed through longing glances and restrained physical contact rather than explicit content.
How violent is Carol?
There is no physical violence or gore depicted in the film. The conflict remains entirely psychological and social, focusing on the legal and emotional pressures placed on the central couple. Any tension is derived from the threat of societal consequences…
Is the language in Carol appropriate for kids?
Mild language, consistent with R rating. The film's period restraint extends to its language.
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Carol?
Characters are frequently seen smoking cigarettes and consuming alcohol in various social settings, reflecting the 1950s period setting. Cocktails and wine are served at dinners and lounges throughout the film, though the consumption is portrayed as part of…
What mature themes appear in Carol?
A lesbian relationship in 1950s America — the legal and social consequences are depicted honestly. A woman losing custody of her child because of her sexuality. The courage required to choose love over social safety. The film is ultimately hopeful but the…
How long is Carol?
Carol runs 118 minutes, directed by Todd Haynes, released in 2015.
Where can I read the full Carol parent guide?
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