Edward Scissorhands (1990) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
A small suburban town receives a visit from a castaway unfinished science experiment named Edward.
Rated PG-13 • 1990 • 1h 45m
Tim Burton's gothic fairytale "Edward Scissorhands" received its PG-13 rating primarily for some moments of violence and mature thematic content. The film's climax features a fight that ends with a fatal stabbing and a character falling to their death. Other scenes include accidental but bloody injuries from Edward's scissor hands. Beyond the violence, the story explores strong, melancholy themes of isolation, prejudice, mob mentality… Sign up for the full guide
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Is Edward Scissorhands appropriate for kids?
Tim Burton's gothic fairytale "Edward Scissorhands" received its PG-13 rating primarily for some moments of violence and mature thematic content. The film's climax features a fight that ends with a fatal stabbing and a character falling to their death. Other scenes include… Read more — free account
Content severity in Edward Scissorhands
What happens in Edward Scissorhands, moment by moment
- 0:09 🔥 Mature Themes 7/10
- 0:11 ⚔ Violence & Gore 4/10
- 0:35 🍷 Substances 3/10
Sex and nudity in Edward Scissorhands
This category is moderate. In one scene, a married neighbor named Joyce attempts to seduce Edward in the back room of a potential salon; she presses against him and unbuttons her blouse before he flees. Earlier, she has a comically orgasmic reaction while Edward cuts her hair. Kim's boyfriend, Jim, is suggestive, and in one scene where he lifts her, her underwear is briefly visible. A crude phrase, "I'd give my left nut," is also used.
Violence and gore in Edward Scissorhands
Violence is infrequent but becomes strong in the finale. Throughout the film, there are several accidental injuries caused by Edward's hands, resulting in some blood, such as when he cuts Kim's hand or Kevin's face. The climax is the most intense sequence: Jim physically assaults Edward and slaps Kim. Enraged, Edward stabs Jim in the stomach with his scissor blades and pushes him from a window to his death. This stabbing is clearly depicted, though not graphically gory.
Language in Edward Scissorhands
Language is moderate for a PG-13 rating. There are approximately six uses of "shit" (one as "bullshit"), as well as scattered uses of "damn," "hell," "ass," "bastard," and exclamations like "Jesus" and "Goddammit."
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Edward Scissorhands
Substance use is mild. Adults drink alcoholic beverages at a neighborhood barbecue, and some characters smoke cigarettes. In one scene, Edward is tricked into drinking whiskey and has a bad reaction, though he vomits off-screen. In the climax, a character drives drunk and nearly hits a child.
Mature themes in Edward Scissorhands
The film is built on strong and pervasive melancholic themes. The central narrative deals with isolation, loneliness, and the pain of being an outcast. Themes of prejudice and mob mentality are prominent as the townspeople turn on Edward. The death of Edward's creator is shown on-screen in a flashback, and the story concludes on a deeply tragic note of unfulfilled love and permanent separation, which may be upsetting for sensitive viewers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Edward Scissorhands appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests Edward Scissorhands is best for ages 13+. It's rated PG-13. Tim Burton's gothic fairytale "Edward Scissorhands" received its PG-13 rating primarily for some moments of violence and mature thematic content. The film's climax features a fight that ends with a fatal stabbing and a…
What age rating does Edward Scissorhands have?
Edward Scissorhands is officially rated PG-13. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.
What is Edward Scissorhands about?
Tim Burton's gothic fairytale "Edward Scissorhands" received its PG-13 rating primarily for some moments of violence and mature thematic content. The film's climax features a fight that ends with a fatal stabbing and a character falling to their death. Other scenes include accidental but bloody injuries from Edward's…
Is there sex or nudity in Edward Scissorhands?
This category is moderate. In one scene, a married neighbor named Joyce attempts to seduce Edward in the back room of a potential salon; she presses against him and unbuttons her blouse before he flees. Earlier, she has a comically orgasmic reaction while…
How violent is Edward Scissorhands?
Violence is infrequent but becomes strong in the finale. Throughout the film, there are several accidental injuries caused by Edward's hands, resulting in some blood, such as when he cuts Kim's hand or Kevin's face. The climax is the most intense sequence…
Is the language in Edward Scissorhands appropriate for kids?
Language is moderate for a PG-13 rating. There are approximately six uses of "shit" (one as "bullshit"), as well as scattered uses of "damn," "hell," "ass," "bastard," and exclamations like "Jesus" and "Goddammit."
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Edward Scissorhands?
Substance use is mild. Adults drink alcoholic beverages at a neighborhood barbecue, and some characters smoke cigarettes. In one scene, Edward is tricked into drinking whiskey and has a bad reaction, though he vomits off-screen. In the climax, a character…
What mature themes appear in Edward Scissorhands?
The film is built on strong and pervasive melancholic themes. The central narrative deals with isolation, loneliness, and the pain of being an outcast. Themes of prejudice and mob mentality are prominent as the townspeople turn on Edward. The death of…
How long is Edward Scissorhands?
Edward Scissorhands runs 105 minutes, directed by Tim Burton, released in 1990.
Where can I read the full Edward Scissorhands parent guide?
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