Empire Records (1995) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
The employees of an independent music store learn about each other as they try to stop the store from being absorbed by a large chain.
Rated PG-13 • 1995 • 1h 30m
This film's PG-13 rating is primarily for its mature thematic content, including a prominent storyline involving a suicide attempt and another character's amphetamine addiction. Set during one chaotic day at an independent record store, "Empire Records" follows employees like Corey and Deb as they navigate personal crises. Parents should be aware of a scene where a character strips to her underwear to seduce a man, a non-graphic but… Sign up for the full guide
Cast
Is Empire Records appropriate for kids?
This film's PG-13 rating is primarily for its mature thematic content, including a prominent storyline involving a suicide attempt and another character's amphetamine addiction. Set during one chaotic day at an independent record store, "Empire Records" follows employees like… Read more — free account
Content severity in Empire Records
What happens in Empire Records, moment by moment
- 0:08 🔥 Mature Themes 7/10
- 0:10 🔥 Mature Themes 6/10
- 0:15 🍷 Substances 7/10
Sex and nudity in Empire Records
Moderate. A principal character, Corey, attempts to seduce an older man by stripping down to her bra and panties; he rejects her. Later, another character, Gina, has a consensual sexual encounter with the same man, which is heard but not seen. There are some sexual innuendos and discussions about promiscuity, as well as a romantic kiss near the end.
Violence and gore in Empire Records
Moderate. A shoplifter is confronted and later returns brandishing a gun, holding the manager at gunpoint and threatening the staff; the tense scene is resolved when it's revealed the gun is loaded with blanks. In another scene, a character punches a man in the face after an argument. A character also has a breakdown and smashes merchandise in the store.
Language in Empire Records
Moderate. There are several uses of "s--t," "asshole," and "bitch." The dialogue also includes one use of "f--k" during a heated argument. The general tone among the staff can be irreverent and insulting, particularly towards the visiting pop star.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Empire Records
Strong. A main characters' addiction to amphetamines ("speed") is a major plot point; Corey is shown taking pills and her addiction is later revealed publicly, leading to a breakdown. Other characters are occasionally seen smoking cigarettes. One character's gambling problem is a catalyst for the plot, as he loses $9,000 of the store's money at a casino.
Mature themes in Empire Records
Strong. The film deals heavily with mature themes. One character, Deb, has recently attempted suicide, which is referenced by a bandaged wrist and openly discussed in a very emotional scene where she explains her feelings of worthlessness. Themes of depression, mental health crises, body image issues, and self-harm are central to the plot. The film also explores coming-of-age anxiety and rebelling against corporate culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Empire Records appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests Empire Records is best for ages 13+. It's rated PG-13. This film's PG-13 rating is primarily for its mature thematic content, including a prominent storyline involving a suicide attempt and another character's amphetamine addiction. Set during one chaotic day at an…
What age rating does Empire Records have?
Empire Records is officially rated PG-13. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.
What is Empire Records about?
This film's PG-13 rating is primarily for its mature thematic content, including a prominent storyline involving a suicide attempt and another character's amphetamine addiction. Set during one chaotic day at an independent record store, "Empire Records" follows employees like Corey and Deb as they navigate personal…
Is there sex or nudity in Empire Records?
Moderate. A principal character, Corey, attempts to seduce an older man by stripping down to her bra and panties; he rejects her. Later, another character, Gina, has a consensual sexual encounter with the same man, which is heard but not seen. There are some…
How violent is Empire Records?
Moderate. A shoplifter is confronted and later returns brandishing a gun, holding the manager at gunpoint and threatening the staff; the tense scene is resolved when it's revealed the gun is loaded with blanks. In another scene, a character punches a man in…
Is the language in Empire Records appropriate for kids?
Moderate. There are several uses of "s--t," "asshole," and "bitch." The dialogue also includes one use of "f--k" during a heated argument. The general tone among the staff can be irreverent and insulting, particularly towards the visiting pop star.
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Empire Records?
Strong. A main characters' addiction to amphetamines ("speed") is a major plot point; Corey is shown taking pills and her addiction is later revealed publicly, leading to a breakdown. Other characters are occasionally seen smoking cigarettes. One character's…
What mature themes appear in Empire Records?
Strong. The film deals heavily with mature themes. One character, Deb, has recently attempted suicide, which is referenced by a bandaged wrist and openly discussed in a very emotional scene where she explains her feelings of worthlessness. Themes of…
How long is Empire Records?
Empire Records runs 90 minutes, directed by Allan Moyle, released in 1995.
Where can I read the full Empire Records parent guide?
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