K-19: The Widowmaker (2002) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
When Russia's first nuclear submarine malfunctions on its maiden voyage, the crew must race to save the ship and prevent a nuclear disaster.
Rated PG-13 • 2002 • 2h 18m
Based on a true story, K-19: The Widowmaker is an intense Cold War thriller that earned its PG-13 rating primarily for disturbing images related to radiation poisoning and sustained thematic peril. The film depicts sailors suffering from severe radiation burns, including blistering skin and vomiting, which can be upsetting for viewers. While violence is not overly graphic, the constant threat of a nuclear meltdown, explosions, and… Sign up for the full guide
Cast
Is K-19: The Widowmaker appropriate for kids?
Based on a true story, K-19: The Widowmaker is an intense Cold War thriller that earned its PG-13 rating primarily for disturbing images related to radiation poisoning and sustained thematic peril. The film depicts sailors suffering from severe radiation burns, including… Read more — free account
Content severity in K-19: The Widowmaker
What happens in K-19: The Widowmaker, moment by moment
- 0:09 ⚔ Violence & Gore 4/10
- 0:15 🍷 Substances 3/10
- 0:28 ⚔ Violence & Gore 4/10
Sex and nudity in K-19: The Widowmaker
Very light. A married couple shares a brief kiss. In one scene, the bare buttocks of several men are seen from a distance as they pull down their pants, though the context is non-sexual.
Violence and gore in K-19: The Widowmaker
Moderate, with the film's PG-13 rating stemming from 'disturbing images.' There are a few instances of bloody but non-graphic injuries from accidents on the submarine. The most significant content involves the depiction of radiation poisoning: sailors are shown vomiting after exposure, and we see their skin developing blisters and burn-like marks. A fire breaks out on board, and a character is killed off-screen in an accident early in the film. The tense, life-or-death situations and peril are constant.
Language in K-19: The Widowmaker
Light. There is at least one use of the 's-word'. Milder language includes uses of 'hell' and 'damn'.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in K-19: The Widowmaker
Light and mostly period-appropriate. Russian sailors are frequently shown drinking vodka and smoking cigarettes or cigars. In an early scene, a key officer is found passed out drunk while on duty and is subsequently replaced.
Mature themes in K-19: The Widowmaker
Strong and mature. The film's central focus is on the extreme peril of a malfunctioning nuclear reactor and the threat of global nuclear war. It heavily explores themes of duty, leadership, and self-sacrifice, as crew members knowingly enter the radioactive reactor core to prevent a catastrophe, fully aware it will kill them. The narrative deals with mutiny, the emotional toll of the crisis, and the deaths of numerous real-life individuals, which is detailed in an epilogue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is K-19: The Widowmaker appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests K-19: The Widowmaker is best for ages 13+. It's rated PG-13. Based on a true story, K-19: The Widowmaker is an intense Cold War thriller that earned its PG-13 rating primarily for disturbing images related to radiation poisoning and sustained thematic peril. The film depicts…
What age rating does K-19: The Widowmaker have?
K-19: The Widowmaker is officially rated PG-13. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.
What is K-19: The Widowmaker about?
Based on a true story, K-19: The Widowmaker is an intense Cold War thriller that earned its PG-13 rating primarily for disturbing images related to radiation poisoning and sustained thematic peril. The film depicts sailors suffering from severe radiation burns, including blistering skin and vomiting, which can be…
Is there sex or nudity in K-19: The Widowmaker?
Very light. A married couple shares a brief kiss. In one scene, the bare buttocks of several men are seen from a distance as they pull down their pants, though the context is non-sexual.
How violent is K-19: The Widowmaker?
Moderate, with the film's PG-13 rating stemming from 'disturbing images.' There are a few instances of bloody but non-graphic injuries from accidents on the submarine. The most significant content involves the depiction of radiation poisoning: sailors are…
Is the language in K-19: The Widowmaker appropriate for kids?
Light. There is at least one use of the 's-word'. Milder language includes uses of 'hell' and 'damn'.
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in K-19: The Widowmaker?
Light and mostly period-appropriate. Russian sailors are frequently shown drinking vodka and smoking cigarettes or cigars. In an early scene, a key officer is found passed out drunk while on duty and is subsequently replaced.
What mature themes appear in K-19: The Widowmaker?
Strong and mature. The film's central focus is on the extreme peril of a malfunctioning nuclear reactor and the threat of global nuclear war. It heavily explores themes of duty, leadership, and self-sacrifice, as crew members knowingly enter the radioactive…
How long is K-19: The Widowmaker?
K-19: The Widowmaker runs 138 minutes, directed by Kathryn Bigelow, released in 2002.
Where can I read the full K-19: The Widowmaker parent guide?
Create a free Bontent account to unlock the full scene-by-scene notes, filter by your kids' ages, and save titles to your personal watchlist.
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