Poster for Shirley

Shirley (2024) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

Shirley Chisholm makes a trailblazing run for the 1972 Democratic presidential nomination after becoming the first Black woman elected to Congress.

Rated PG-13 • 2024 • 1h 57m

6.7
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
13+

Shirley is a historical drama chronicling the 1972 presidential campaign of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress. The film explores the political obstacles, systemic racism, and personal sacrifices involved in her historic run. Parents should be aware that the film is rated PG-13 primarily for pervasive strong language, including the frequent use of racial slurs reflective of the 1970s political climate… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Regina King
Regina King
Lance Reddick
Lance Reddick
Terrence Howard
Terrence Howard
Lucas Hedges
Lucas Hedges
MC
Michael Cherrie
Brian Stokes Mitchell
Brian Stokes Mitchell
Christina Jackson
Christina Jackson
André Holland
André Holland
Dorian Missick
Dorian Missick
RK
Reina King
Amirah Vann
Amirah Vann
W. Earl Brown
W. Earl Brown
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Is Shirley appropriate for kids?

Shirley is a historical drama chronicling the 1972 presidential campaign of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress. The film explores the political obstacles, systemic racism, and personal sacrifices involved in her historic run. Parents should be… Read more — free account

Content severity in Shirley

Sex None 0/10
Violence None 0/10
Language Strong 7/10
Substances Mild 2/10
Themes Strong 5/10

What happens in Shirley, moment by moment

  1. 0:15 💬 Language 3/10
  2. 0:40 💬 Language 7/10
  3. 0:52 🍷 Substances 2/10
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Sex and nudity in Shirley

There is no sexual content or nudity in this film.

Violence and gore in Shirley

Violence is absent throughout the film, though there is one intense scene where an individual yells aggressively while approaching the protagonist, implying a threat.

Language in Shirley

Strong language is used frequently, including the persistent use of racial slurs and profanity. Characters engage in heated political arguments where words like 'f---' and 'b----' are used aggressively.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Shirley

There is occasional, mild tobacco smoking depicted, consistent with the 1970s period setting.

Mature themes in Shirley

The film centers on systemic racism, political betrayal, and intense family conflict. It depicts the prejudice Chisholm faced as a Black woman in American politics.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Shirley appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Shirley is best for ages 13+. It's rated PG-13. Shirley is a historical drama chronicling the 1972 presidential campaign of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress. The film explores the political obstacles, systemic racism, and personal…

What age rating does Shirley have?

Shirley is officially rated PG-13. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.

What is Shirley about?

Shirley is a historical drama chronicling the 1972 presidential campaign of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress. The film explores the political obstacles, systemic racism, and personal sacrifices involved in her historic run. Parents should be aware that the film is rated PG-13…

Is there sex or nudity in Shirley?

There is no sexual content or nudity in this film.

How violent is Shirley?

Violence is absent throughout the film, though there is one intense scene where an individual yells aggressively while approaching the protagonist, implying a threat.

Is the language in Shirley appropriate for kids?

Strong language is used frequently, including the persistent use of racial slurs and profanity. Characters engage in heated political arguments where words like 'f---' and 'b----' are used aggressively.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Shirley?

There is occasional, mild tobacco smoking depicted, consistent with the 1970s period setting.

What mature themes appear in Shirley?

The film centers on systemic racism, political betrayal, and intense family conflict. It depicts the prejudice Chisholm faced as a Black woman in American politics.

How long is Shirley?

Shirley runs 117 minutes, directed by John Ridley, released in 2024.

Where can I read the full Shirley parent guide?

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