Philadelphia (1993) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
Two competing lawyers join forces to sue a prestigious law firm for AIDS discrimination. As their unlikely friendship develops, their courage overcomes the prejudice and corruption of their powerful adversaries.
Rated PG-13 • 1993 • 2h 6m
Philadelphia's PG-13 rating is for its intense thematic material and some strong language. The film follows lawyer Andrew Beckett, who sues his prestigious law firm for wrongful termination after they discover he has AIDS. The story's primary focus is on emotionally heavy themes, including prejudice, the devastating effects of a terminal illness, and mortality. The film contains frequent uses of homophobic slurs (e.g., "faggot") and… Sign up for the full guide
Cast
Is Philadelphia appropriate for kids?
Philadelphia's PG-13 rating is for its intense thematic material and some strong language. The film follows lawyer Andrew Beckett, who sues his prestigious law firm for wrongful termination after they discover he has AIDS. The story's primary focus is on emotionally heavy… Read more — free account
Content severity in Philadelphia
What happens in Philadelphia, moment by moment
- 0:05 🔥 Mature Themes 5/10
- 0:18 🔥 Mature Themes 6/10
- 0:25 🔥 Mature Themes 4/10
Sex and nudity in Philadelphia
Sexual content is limited to dialogue and themes rather than explicit depictions. Andrew and his partner share a few moments of affection, including a slow dance and a brief kiss at a costume party. The nature of homosexual sex is discussed in frank, clinical terms during courtroom testimony, and homophobic characters make crude remarks and gestures about gay sex.
Violence and gore in Philadelphia
There is no significant gore or fighting. One scene involves a tense verbal confrontation in a pharmacy where a character aggressively gets in another's face. Protesters are seen shouting outside the courthouse, but the scenes do not involve physical violence. The film's 'violence' is primarily emotional and psychological, stemming from discrimination.
Language in Philadelphia
Language is moderate but contains impactful slurs. The dialogue includes several uses of "s--t," "damn," and exclamations like "for Christ's sake." The most significant language is the repeated, hateful use of anti-gay slurs, including "faggot," "fairy," and "queer," particularly during courtroom scenes and in depicting societal prejudice.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Philadelphia
Substance use is mild and incidental to the plot. Characters are occasionally shown drinking wine or champagne socially at parties and dinners. Some characters also smoke cigars in business and social settings. There is no depiction of substance abuse.
Mature themes in Philadelphia
Thematic content is pervasive and emotionally intense. The film is a frank and sensitive exploration of the AIDS crisis in the early 1990s, focusing on themes of discrimination, homophobia, and mortality. Andrew Beckett's physical decline from the disease is shown progressively, including visible lesions and increasing frailty, which can be upsetting. The story culminates in the main character's death, exploring themes of grief and justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Philadelphia appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests Philadelphia is best for ages 13+. It's rated PG-13. Philadelphia's PG-13 rating is for its intense thematic material and some strong language. The film follows lawyer Andrew Beckett, who sues his prestigious law firm for wrongful termination after they discover he has…
What age rating does Philadelphia have?
Philadelphia is officially rated PG-13. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.
What is Philadelphia about?
Philadelphia's PG-13 rating is for its intense thematic material and some strong language. The film follows lawyer Andrew Beckett, who sues his prestigious law firm for wrongful termination after they discover he has AIDS. The story's primary focus is on emotionally heavy themes, including prejudice, the devastating…
Is there sex or nudity in Philadelphia?
Sexual content is limited to dialogue and themes rather than explicit depictions. Andrew and his partner share a few moments of affection, including a slow dance and a brief kiss at a costume party. The nature of homosexual sex is discussed in frank, clinical…
How violent is Philadelphia?
There is no significant gore or fighting. One scene involves a tense verbal confrontation in a pharmacy where a character aggressively gets in another's face. Protesters are seen shouting outside the courthouse, but the scenes do not involve physical…
Is the language in Philadelphia appropriate for kids?
Language is moderate but contains impactful slurs. The dialogue includes several uses of "s--t," "damn," and exclamations like "for Christ's sake." The most significant language is the repeated, hateful use of anti-gay slurs, including "faggot," "fairy," and…
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Philadelphia?
Substance use is mild and incidental to the plot. Characters are occasionally shown drinking wine or champagne socially at parties and dinners. Some characters also smoke cigars in business and social settings. There is no depiction of substance abuse.
What mature themes appear in Philadelphia?
Thematic content is pervasive and emotionally intense. The film is a frank and sensitive exploration of the AIDS crisis in the early 1990s, focusing on themes of discrimination, homophobia, and mortality. Andrew Beckett's physical decline from the disease is…
How long is Philadelphia?
Philadelphia runs 126 minutes, directed by Jonathan Demme, released in 1993.
Where can I read the full Philadelphia parent guide?
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