White Bird (2023) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
After being expelled from Beecher Prep for his treatment of a classmate with a facial deformity, Julian has struggled to fit in at his new school. To transform his life, Julian's grandmother finally reveals her own story of courage of her youth in Nazi-occupied France, where a classmate shelters her from mortal danger.
Rated PG-13 • 2023 • 2h 1m
Based on the book by R.J. Palacio, "White Bird" earns its PG-13 rating for its depiction of mature thematic material related to the Holocaust, some strong violence, and thematic elements. The film frames the harrowing story of Sara, a young Jewish girl hidden from the Nazis in occupied France, as a tale told to her grandson Julian. Parents should be aware of the intense themes of war, persecution, and loss, including discussions of… Sign up for the full guide
Cast
Is White Bird appropriate for kids?
Based on the book by R.J. Palacio, "White Bird" earns its PG-13 rating for its depiction of mature thematic material related to the Holocaust, some strong violence, and thematic elements. The film frames the harrowing story of Sara, a young Jewish girl hidden from the Nazis in… Read more — free account
Content severity in White Bird
What happens in White Bird, moment by moment
- 0:10 🔥 Mature Themes 6/10
- 0:12 ⚔ Violence & Gore 7/10
- 0:25 🔥 Mature Themes 5/10
Sex and nudity in White Bird
Sexual content is very light, limited to the depiction of a chaste, innocent romance between two teenagers. They share affection and a single, brief kiss.
Violence and gore in White Bird
The film contains several moments of strong but not overly graphic violence. A main character is shot and killed, with some blood briefly visible. Another character is mauled and killed by a wolf, with some blood seen on his neck. There are tense scenes of Nazi soldiers rounding up Jewish citizens, and the aftermath of a conflict is shown with bodies visible from a distance. The violence is sudden and emotionally impactful rather than gory.
Language in White Bird
The MPAA cites language for the PG-13 rating. While no traditional profanity is reported by IMDb user guides, viewers can expect some historically relevant derogatory terms used in the context of persecution and possibly exclamations like 'hell' or 'damn' in moments of distress.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in White Bird
Some incidental substance use is present, consistent with the historical setting. Adults are occasionally shown drinking wine with meals or smoking cigarettes in social situations.
Mature themes in White Bird
The film is built on intense and mature thematic material related to the Holocaust. It deals directly with genocide, antisemitic persecution, fear, loss of family, and death. Key themes include the terror of hiding from Nazis, the death of a parent in a concentration camp (Auschwitz is mentioned), and the sacrifice of one's life for another. The narrative also strongly emphasizes themes of kindness, courage, and human decency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is White Bird appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests White Bird is best for ages 13+. It's rated PG-13. Based on the book by R.J. Palacio, "White Bird" earns its PG-13 rating for its depiction of mature thematic material related to the Holocaust, some strong violence, and thematic elements. The film frames the harrowing…
What age rating does White Bird have?
White Bird is officially rated PG-13. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 13+.
What is White Bird about?
Based on the book by R.J. Palacio, "White Bird" earns its PG-13 rating for its depiction of mature thematic material related to the Holocaust, some strong violence, and thematic elements. The film frames the harrowing story of Sara, a young Jewish girl hidden from the Nazis in occupied France, as a tale told to her…
Is there sex or nudity in White Bird?
Sexual content is very light, limited to the depiction of a chaste, innocent romance between two teenagers. They share affection and a single, brief kiss.
How violent is White Bird?
The film contains several moments of strong but not overly graphic violence. A main character is shot and killed, with some blood briefly visible. Another character is mauled and killed by a wolf, with some blood seen on his neck. There are tense scenes of…
Is the language in White Bird appropriate for kids?
The MPAA cites language for the PG-13 rating. While no traditional profanity is reported by IMDb user guides, viewers can expect some historically relevant derogatory terms used in the context of persecution and possibly exclamations like 'hell' or 'damn' in…
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in White Bird?
Some incidental substance use is present, consistent with the historical setting. Adults are occasionally shown drinking wine with meals or smoking cigarettes in social situations.
What mature themes appear in White Bird?
The film is built on intense and mature thematic material related to the Holocaust. It deals directly with genocide, antisemitic persecution, fear, loss of family, and death. Key themes include the terror of hiding from Nazis, the death of a parent in a…
How long is White Bird?
White Bird runs 121 minutes, directed by Marc Forster, released in 2023.
Where can I read the full White Bird parent guide?
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