Raising Helen (2004) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
Helen Harris has a glamorous, big-city life working for one of New York's hottest modeling agencies. But suddenly her free-spirited life gets turned upside down when she must chose between the life she's always loved, and the new loves of her life!
Rated PG-13 • 2004 • 1h 59m
Raising Helen received its PG-13 rating primarily for mature thematic content involving teenagers. The film's central plot is triggered by the off-screen death of parents in a car accident, and themes of grief, loss, and sudden responsibility are present throughout. The rating also reflects content related to teen rebellion, including scenes depicting underage drinking and smoking, and a pivotal moment where 15-year-old Audrey is found… Sign up for the full guide
Cast
Is Raising Helen appropriate for kids?
Raising Helen received its PG-13 rating primarily for mature thematic content involving teenagers. The film's central plot is triggered by the off-screen death of parents in a car accident, and themes of grief, loss, and sudden responsibility are present throughout. The rating… Read more — free account
Content severity in Raising Helen
What happens in Raising Helen, moment by moment
- 0:06 🔥 Mature Themes 7/10
- 0:11 🍷 Substances 3/10
- 0:15 🔥 Mature Themes 6/10
Sex and nudity in Raising Helen
A few scenes contain moderate sexual content and innuendo. During a fashion show, models wear revealing outfits including corsets, thongs, and push-up bras. The main character, Helen, shares a few romantic kisses. The film's most significant sexual content involves a 15-year-old character who is discovered in a motel room with her older boyfriend; sexual activity is strongly implied but is interrupted before anything happens, and no nudity is shown.
Violence and gore in Raising Helen
None. The car accident that kills two main characters happens entirely off-screen and is only discussed. There is no on-screen violence, fighting, or gore.
Language in Raising Helen
Language is mild and infrequent. There are two uses of "bitch" during arguments. Other milder words like "hell" or "damn" may be used, but profanity is not a focus of the film.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Raising Helen
Substance use is moderate. Adults are shown drinking socially at parties and work events, typically wine or champagne. More concerning for some parents will be scenes depicting teenagers with alcohol; one scene shows underage drinking and smoking at a house party, and another involves teens planning to spike the prom punch with vodka.
Mature themes in Raising Helen
Thematic content is the film's strongest element. The story is founded on the sudden death of parents, and the subsequent grief experienced by their children and family members is a constant, emotionally heavy theme. The film explores the immense pressure and difficulty of sudden guardianship, career versus family choices, and teenage rebellion in the face of loss. A teen's risky behavior is a major plot point, culminating in an emotionally intense confrontation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Raising Helen appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests Raising Helen is best for ages 13+. It's rated PG-13. Raising Helen received its PG-13 rating primarily for mature thematic content involving teenagers. The film's central plot is triggered by the off-screen death of parents in a car accident, and themes of grief, loss…
What age rating does Raising Helen have?
Raising Helen is officially rated PG-13. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.
What is Raising Helen about?
Raising Helen received its PG-13 rating primarily for mature thematic content involving teenagers. The film's central plot is triggered by the off-screen death of parents in a car accident, and themes of grief, loss, and sudden responsibility are present throughout. The rating also reflects content related to teen…
Is there sex or nudity in Raising Helen?
A few scenes contain moderate sexual content and innuendo. During a fashion show, models wear revealing outfits including corsets, thongs, and push-up bras. The main character, Helen, shares a few romantic kisses. The film's most significant sexual content…
How violent is Raising Helen?
None. The car accident that kills two main characters happens entirely off-screen and is only discussed. There is no on-screen violence, fighting, or gore.
Is the language in Raising Helen appropriate for kids?
Language is mild and infrequent. There are two uses of "bitch" during arguments. Other milder words like "hell" or "damn" may be used, but profanity is not a focus of the film.
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Raising Helen?
Substance use is moderate. Adults are shown drinking socially at parties and work events, typically wine or champagne. More concerning for some parents will be scenes depicting teenagers with alcohol; one scene shows underage drinking and smoking at a house…
What mature themes appear in Raising Helen?
Thematic content is the film's strongest element. The story is founded on the sudden death of parents, and the subsequent grief experienced by their children and family members is a constant, emotionally heavy theme. The film explores the immense pressure and…
How long is Raising Helen?
Raising Helen runs 119 minutes, directed by Garry Marshall, released in 2004.
Where can I read the full Raising Helen parent guide?
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