Poster for Ethel & Ernest

Ethel & Ernest (2016) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

This hand drawn animated film, based on the award winning graphic novel by Raymond Briggs, is an intimate and affectionate depiction of the life and times of his parents, two ordinary Londoners living through extraordinary events.

Rated NR • 2016 • 1h 34m

7.5
100+
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
11+

Ethel & Ernest is a hand-drawn animated film depicting the lives of a London couple throughout the 20th century. While largely gentle and biographical, it includes intense verbal accounts of wartime devastation and brief, suggestive humor that may pass over younger viewers. Parents should be aware of scenes involving grief, smoking, and the somber reality of the Blitz. It is generally suitable for older children and teens who can… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Jim Broadbent
Jim Broadbent
Brenda Blethyn
Brenda Blethyn
Luke Treadaway
Luke Treadaway
Roger Allam
Roger Allam
Virginia McKenna
Virginia McKenna
Peter Wight
Peter Wight
Pam Ferris
Pam Ferris
Simon Day
Simon Day
Raymond Briggs
Raymond Briggs
June Brown
June Brown
Harry Collett
Harry Collett
GH
Gillian Hanna
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Is Ethel & Ernest appropriate for kids?

Ethel & Ernest is a hand-drawn animated film depicting the lives of a London couple throughout the 20th century. While largely gentle and biographical, it includes intense verbal accounts of wartime devastation and brief, suggestive humor that may pass over younger viewers… Read more — free account

Content severity in Ethel & Ernest

Sex Mild 2/10
Violence Strong 5/10
Language Mild 2/10
Substances Mild 2/10
Themes Moderate 4/10

What happens in Ethel & Ernest, moment by moment

  1. 0:15 ♥ Sex & Nudity 2/10
  2. 0:22 🍷 Substances 2/10
  3. 0:40 ⚔ Violence & Gore 3/10
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Sex and nudity in Ethel & Ernest

There are occasional, fleeting suggestive jokes. These include a playful comment about a new mattress, a minor reference to life drawing models, and a brief, awkward interaction where a character implies he wants his wife to have an affair. Two pigs are seen humping in a farmyard, which is played for mild comedic effect.

Violence and gore in Ethel & Ernest

Violence is infrequent and depicted in a non-graphic, illustrative style. The most intense moment involves a character describing the grim aftermath of a bombing, which is conveyed entirely through dialogue. Other scenes include brief, historical depictions of soldiers or Nazi imagery during the war years.

Language in Ethel & Ernest

Mild profanity is present, including a few uses of 'bloody', 'God', and 'Christ'. The language is consistent with the era and is not used in a malicious or aggressive way.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Ethel & Ernest

Smoking is common, with Ernest frequently shown with a cigarette, reflecting the cultural norms of the period. There are also brief scenes featuring beer consumption at social gatherings and a mention of wine.

Mature themes in Ethel & Ernest

The film explores mature themes including the aging process, the death of parents, and the emotional toll of war. The narrative emphasizes the passage of time and the reality of loss over several decades.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ethel & Ernest appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Ethel & Ernest is best for ages 11+. It's rated NR. Ethel & Ernest is a hand-drawn animated film depicting the lives of a London couple throughout the 20th century. While largely gentle and biographical, it includes intense verbal accounts of wartime devastation and…

What age rating does Ethel & Ernest have?

Ethel & Ernest is officially rated NR. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 11+.

What is Ethel & Ernest about?

Ethel & Ernest is a hand-drawn animated film depicting the lives of a London couple throughout the 20th century. While largely gentle and biographical, it includes intense verbal accounts of wartime devastation and brief, suggestive humor that may pass over younger viewers. Parents should be aware of scenes involving…

Is there sex or nudity in Ethel & Ernest?

There are occasional, fleeting suggestive jokes. These include a playful comment about a new mattress, a minor reference to life drawing models, and a brief, awkward interaction where a character implies he wants his wife to have an affair. Two pigs are seen…

How violent is Ethel & Ernest?

Violence is infrequent and depicted in a non-graphic, illustrative style. The most intense moment involves a character describing the grim aftermath of a bombing, which is conveyed entirely through dialogue. Other scenes include brief, historical depictions…

Is the language in Ethel & Ernest appropriate for kids?

Mild profanity is present, including a few uses of 'bloody', 'God', and 'Christ'. The language is consistent with the era and is not used in a malicious or aggressive way.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Ethel & Ernest?

Smoking is common, with Ernest frequently shown with a cigarette, reflecting the cultural norms of the period. There are also brief scenes featuring beer consumption at social gatherings and a mention of wine.

What mature themes appear in Ethel & Ernest?

The film explores mature themes including the aging process, the death of parents, and the emotional toll of war. The narrative emphasizes the passage of time and the reality of loss over several decades.

How long is Ethel & Ernest?

Ethel & Ernest runs 94 minutes, directed by Roger Mainwood, released in 2016.

Where can I read the full Ethel & Ernest parent guide?

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