Ares (2020) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Sexual content is moderate with some strong implications. Episode 3 features a highly aggressive three-person sexual encounter involving two women and one man, where one woman is implied to be drugged. While no explicit nudity is shown, the scene is intense and prolonged, with suggestive movements. There are also brief instances of kissing and heavy petting. Sexual themes are often linked to power dynamics and manipulation within the society.

Violence is severe and graphic, central to the horror elements of the series. This includes disturbing depictions of self-harm and suicide, such as characters slitting their throats or shooting themselves, often with visible blood. Body horror is prominent, with a character having a rotting entity slowly consume their body, shown with grotesque detail and pulsating flesh. Other violence includes physical assaults, characters being burned, and ritualistic sacrifice. The violence is often sudden, shocking, and…

Frequent strong language is present throughout the season, including uses of 'f**k,' 'sh*t,' 'bitch,' and 'asshole.' The profanity is common in dialogue, especially during stressful or confrontational moments, reflecting the characters' anger and fear.

Alcohol consumption is seen frequently at parties and social gatherings among the college-aged members of Ares. Drugs are also used in several episodes; in Episode 3, characters are implied to have taken ecstasy before a sexual encounter. There are recurring scenes of characters smoking cigarettes and cigars. Some characters are depicted as intoxicated, especially in initiation rituals.

The series explores very dark and mature themes, including death, intense psychological manipulation, cult behavior, and the corrupting nature of power and privilege. Characters grapple with severe anxiety, fear, and paranoia. There are strong themes of identity crisis, trauma, and the existential horror of confronting an ancient, parasitic entity. The emotional toll on the characters is profound and consistently depicted.