Banished (2015) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?
Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language
Banished is a British period drama television serial created by Jimmy McGovern. The seven-part serial first aired on BBC Two from 5 March to 16 April 2015. It received mixed reviews, with most of the criticism for its perceived inaccuracies to the depicted events. Though set in the stark historical reality of the founding of the penal colony in Australia in 1788 after the arrival of the First Fleet, it is not the story of Australia and how it came to be. Rather, it is a tale of love, faith, justice and morality played out on an epic… Sign up for the full guide
TV-MA • 2015 • 1 season
Banished is a somber, gritty period drama focused on the harsh realities of a British penal colony in 1788 Australia. The series is rated TV-MA due to pervasive themes of sexual violence, systemic abuse of power, and brutal corporal punishment. Parents should be aware of frequent depictions of rape, attempted sexual assault, and the constant threat of execution hanging over the prisoner characters. This show is strictly intended for… Sign up for the full guide
Cast
Is Banished appropriate for kids?
Banished is a somber, gritty period drama focused on the harsh realities of a British penal colony in 1788 Australia. The series is rated TV-MA due to pervasive themes of sexual violence, systemic abuse of power, and brutal corporal punishment. Parents should be aware of… Read more — free account
Content severity in Banished Sign up for season-by-season breakdown
Sex and nudity in Banished
Sexual themes are present, including non-consensual situations, prostitution within the camp, and illicit affairs between captives and officers. While not pornographic, these situations are central to the power dynamics of the narrative.
Violence and gore in Banished
Violence is graphic and frequent, primarily involving systemic corporal punishment such as severe floggings, public executions, and physical beatings. The struggle for survival leads to intense, visceral skirmishes and scenes of bodily harm.
Language in Banished
The dialogue features frequent use of period-appropriate coarse language, including various expletives and derogatory terms used to dehumanize the convict population.
Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Banished
Alcohol consumption is common among both the convicts and the soldiers as a means of coping with the harsh environment. There is occasional depiction of drunkenness and the illicit bartering of liquor.
Mature themes in Banished
The show deals with heavy, mature themes including systemic oppression, the psychological toll of imprisonment, class struggle, and existential despair. It portrays a society governed by arbitrary and often lethal authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Banished appropriate for kids?
Bontent's parent guide suggests Banished is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. Banished is a somber, gritty period drama focused on the harsh realities of a British penal colony in 1788 Australia. The series is rated TV-MA due to pervasive themes of sexual violence, systemic abuse of power, and…
What age rating does Banished have?
Banished is rated TV-MA. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 17+.
What is Banished about?
Banished is a somber, gritty period drama focused on the harsh realities of a British penal colony in 1788 Australia. The series is rated TV-MA due to pervasive themes of sexual violence, systemic abuse of power, and brutal corporal punishment. Parents should be aware of frequent depictions of rape, attempted sexual…
How many seasons does Banished have?
Banished has 1 season covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.
Is there sex or nudity in Banished?
Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across Banished.
How violent is Banished?
Violence isn't a standout concern across Banished per our reviewers.
Is the language in Banished appropriate for kids?
Strong language isn't flagged across Banished.
Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Banished?
Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across Banished.
What mature themes appear in Banished?
Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of Banished.
Where can I read the full Banished parent guide?
Create a free Bontent account to unlock season-by-season notes, filter by your kids' ages, and save titles to your watchlist.
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