Poster for The Present

The Present (2020) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

On his wedding anniversary, Yusef and his young daughter set out in the West Bank to buy his wife a gift. Between soldiers, segregated roads and checkpoints, how easy would it be to go shopping?

Rated NR • 2020 • 24m

7.3
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
13+

This Oscar-nominated short film, The Present, earns its mature ratings (including a UK '12') primarily for its depiction of thematic stress and humiliation. The story follows a Palestinian father, Yusef, and his young daughter attempting to cross a checkpoint in the West Bank. Parents should be aware of several tense and emotionally taxing scenes where Yusef is verbally berated and physically manhandled by armed soldiers. While there… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Saleh Bakri
Saleh Bakri
MK
Mariam Kanj
Mariam Basha
Mariam Basha
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Is The Present appropriate for kids?

This Oscar-nominated short film, The Present, earns its mature ratings (including a UK '12') primarily for its depiction of thematic stress and humiliation. The story follows a Palestinian father, Yusef, and his young daughter attempting to cross a checkpoint in the West Bank… Read more — free account

Content severity in The Present

Sex None 0/10
Violence Strong 6/10
Language None 0/10
Substances None 0/10
Themes Strong 7/10

What happens in The Present, moment by moment

  1. 0:02 🔥 Mature Themes 4/10
  2. 0:06 🔥 Mature Themes 5/10
  3. 0:08 ⚔ Violence & Gore 6/10
Unlock all 7 flagged moments — free account →

Sex and nudity in The Present

None. Sexual content is not present in this film.

Violence and gore in The Present

Violence is brief and not graphic, but the environment is tense. Soldiers are armed with rifles throughout. In one scene, the protagonist Yusef is shoved and roughly handled during a security check. The general atmosphere at the checkpoint is chaotic and intimidating, with large crowds and yelling, which may feel threatening to some viewers.

Language in The Present

None. No profanity or strong language is used.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in The Present

None. There is no depiction of smoking, drinking, or drug use.

Mature themes in The Present

Thematic content is strong and central to the film. It explores the daily humiliation, frustration, and loss of dignity experienced under military occupation. The protagonist's physical and emotional pain is a constant focus, culminating in a moment of despair where he gives up. The film also touches on the innocence of childhood in a conflict zone and the resilience of family bonds.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Present appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests The Present is best for ages 13+. It's rated NR. This Oscar-nominated short film, The Present, earns its mature ratings (including a UK '12') primarily for its depiction of thematic stress and humiliation. The story follows a Palestinian father, Yusef, and his young…

What age rating does The Present have?

The Present is officially rated NR. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.

What is The Present about?

This Oscar-nominated short film, The Present, earns its mature ratings (including a UK '12') primarily for its depiction of thematic stress and humiliation. The story follows a Palestinian father, Yusef, and his young daughter attempting to cross a checkpoint in the West Bank. Parents should be aware of several tense…

Is there sex or nudity in The Present?

None. Sexual content is not present in this film.

How violent is The Present?

Violence is brief and not graphic, but the environment is tense. Soldiers are armed with rifles throughout. In one scene, the protagonist Yusef is shoved and roughly handled during a security check. The general atmosphere at the checkpoint is chaotic and…

Is the language in The Present appropriate for kids?

None. No profanity or strong language is used.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in The Present?

None. There is no depiction of smoking, drinking, or drug use.

What mature themes appear in The Present?

Thematic content is strong and central to the film. It explores the daily humiliation, frustration, and loss of dignity experienced under military occupation. The protagonist's physical and emotional pain is a constant focus, culminating in a moment of…

How long is The Present?

The Present runs 24 minutes, directed by Farah Nabulsi, released in 2020.

Where can I read the full The Present parent guide?

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