The Chorus (2004) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
In 1940s France, a new teacher at a school for disruptive boys gives hope and inspiration.
Rated PG-13 • 2004 • 1h 37m
The Chorus (Les Choristes) is a PG-13 French film about Clément Mathieu, a gentle music teacher at a bleak 1940s boarding school for troubled boys. The film earned its rating for themes of child mistreatment, some violence, and infrequent strong language. The most intense content involves the cruel headmaster physically punishing students, including repeatedly slapping a boy. While ultimately hopeful, the film's depiction of a harsh… Sign up for the full guide
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Is The Chorus appropriate for kids?
The Chorus (Les Choristes) is a PG-13 French film about Clément Mathieu, a gentle music teacher at a bleak 1940s boarding school for troubled boys. The film earned its rating for themes of child mistreatment, some violence, and infrequent strong language. The most intense… Read more — free account
Content severity in The Chorus
What happens in The Chorus, moment by moment
- 0:07 🔥 Mature Themes 5/10
- 0:11 ⚔ Violence & Gore 4/10
- 0:19 ♥ Sex & Nudity 3/10
Sex and nudity in The Chorus
This category is very light. The boys sing a couple of crude songs, one with a line about the headmaster's genitals (in the English subtitles) and another briefly mentioning masturbation. There are also passing verbal references to wanting to see girls naked. There is no nudity or sexual activity.
Violence and gore in The Chorus
Moderate scenes of non-graphic violence occur. The school's headmaster, Rachin, frequently punishes boys, culminating in a scene where he repeatedly slaps a student in the face. That student then retaliates by attempting to strangle the headmaster. In an earlier scene, a booby trap injures a caretaker (we see blood on his face), and two boys have a brief fight. An act of arson is also central to the climax.
Language in The Chorus
Language is infrequent but includes some strong words, primarily in the English subtitles. The F-word is reportedly used twice, and the S-word is also used. Milder terms like 'damn' are present. The boys sing a rude song that includes a crude anatomical term for male genitalia in the subtitles.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in The Chorus
There are a few instances of substance use. The new, rebellious student Mondain is shown smoking a cigarette. Other older boys are also seen smoking occasionally. Some adults smoke pipes or cigarettes, which is period-typical.
Mature themes in The Chorus
Thematic content is strong and central to the plot. The primary theme is the verbal and physical abuse of children within a harsh institutional system. Themes of abandonment and orphanhood are prominent, particularly with the character Pépinot, whose parents died in the war. Bullying, false accusations, and the power of kindness versus cruelty are explored throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Chorus appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests The Chorus is best for ages 13+. It's rated PG-13. The Chorus (Les Choristes) is a PG-13 French film about Clément Mathieu, a gentle music teacher at a bleak 1940s boarding school for troubled boys. The film earned its rating for themes of child mistreatment, some…
What age rating does The Chorus have?
The Chorus is officially rated PG-13. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.
What is The Chorus about?
The Chorus (Les Choristes) is a PG-13 French film about Clément Mathieu, a gentle music teacher at a bleak 1940s boarding school for troubled boys. The film earned its rating for themes of child mistreatment, some violence, and infrequent strong language. The most intense content involves the cruel headmaster…
Is there sex or nudity in The Chorus?
This category is very light. The boys sing a couple of crude songs, one with a line about the headmaster's genitals (in the English subtitles) and another briefly mentioning masturbation. There are also passing verbal references to wanting to see girls naked…
How violent is The Chorus?
Moderate scenes of non-graphic violence occur. The school's headmaster, Rachin, frequently punishes boys, culminating in a scene where he repeatedly slaps a student in the face. That student then retaliates by attempting to strangle the headmaster. In an…
Is the language in The Chorus appropriate for kids?
Language is infrequent but includes some strong words, primarily in the English subtitles. The F-word is reportedly used twice, and the S-word is also used. Milder terms like 'damn' are present. The boys sing a rude song that includes a crude anatomical term…
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in The Chorus?
There are a few instances of substance use. The new, rebellious student Mondain is shown smoking a cigarette. Other older boys are also seen smoking occasionally. Some adults smoke pipes or cigarettes, which is period-typical.
What mature themes appear in The Chorus?
Thematic content is strong and central to the plot. The primary theme is the verbal and physical abuse of children within a harsh institutional system. Themes of abandonment and orphanhood are prominent, particularly with the character Pépinot, whose parents…
How long is The Chorus?
The Chorus runs 97 minutes, directed by Christophe Barratier, released in 2004.
Where can I read the full The Chorus parent guide?
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