Poster for Prohibition

Prohibition (2011) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

The history of the rise, rule and fall of the Eighteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution and the entire era it encompassed (1920-33). After nearly a century of activism, Prohibition was intended to improve the lives of all citizens by protecting individuals, families and society at large from the devastating effects of alcohol abuse; but paradoxically it made millions of people rethink their definition of morality.

TV-14 • 2011 • 1 season

7.9
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
14+

This Ken Burns documentary series chronicles the rise and fall of the 18th Amendment, which outlawed alcohol in the United States. The series earns its TV-14 rating primarily for its frank depiction of historical violence and mature themes. Parents should be aware of frequent discussions about the devastating societal and personal effects of alcohol abuse, as well as the violent crime that flourished during the era. The series includes… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Peter Coyote
Peter Coyote
Daniel Okrent
Daniel Okrent
Pete Hamill
Pete Hamill
Noah Feldman
Noah Feldman
Adam Arkin
Adam Arkin
Philip Bosco
Philip Bosco
Patricia Clarkson
Patricia Clarkson
Kevin Conway
Kevin Conway
Blythe Danner
Blythe Danner
Paul Giamatti
Paul Giamatti
Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks
Jeremy Irons
Jeremy Irons
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Is Prohibition appropriate for kids?

This Ken Burns documentary series chronicles the rise and fall of the 18th Amendment, which outlawed alcohol in the United States. The series earns its TV-14 rating primarily for its frank depiction of historical violence and mature themes. Parents should be aware of frequent… Read more — free account

Content severity in Prohibition Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Intense 10/10
Language Mild 2/10
Sex/Nudity None 0/10
Violence/Gore Intense 10/10
Mature Themes Intense 10/10

Sex and nudity in Prohibition

None. The documentary focuses on historical, social, and political aspects of Prohibition and does not contain any sexual content, nudity, or explicit discussions of sexuality.

Violence and gore in Prohibition

Violence is discussed as a consequence of societal ills related to alcohol and criminal activity. There are historical accounts and archival images depicting social unrest, riots, and the destruction of property related to the temperance movement and early Prohibition enforcement. While not graphic, these depictions convey the intensity of the period's conflicts.

Language in Prohibition

Given the historical nature of the documentary, language is generally formal and academic. Occasional historical quotes or intertitles may include mild period-appropriate expletives, but modern strong profanity is not present. The language focuses on conveying historical information and perspectives.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Prohibition

The series frequently depicts and discusses the societal problems caused by alcohol, including extreme drunkenness, alcoholism, and the devastation it brought to families. Historical accounts detail widespread public intoxication and the social reformers' efforts to curb it. There are also descriptions of how people consumed alcohol during Prohibition, often illicitly and sometimes with dangerous consequences from unregulated spirits.

Mature themes in Prohibition

Major themes include social reform, moral crusades, political activism, government overreach, and the unintended consequences of well-intentioned laws. The series explores addiction's devastating effects on individuals and families, the rise of organized crime due to black markets, shifts in societal norms, and deep divisions within the population regarding personal liberty versus public morality.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Prohibition appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Prohibition is best for ages 14+. It's rated TV-14. This Ken Burns documentary series chronicles the rise and fall of the 18th Amendment, which outlawed alcohol in the United States. The series earns its TV-14 rating primarily for its frank depiction of historical…

What age rating does Prohibition have?

Prohibition is rated TV-14. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 14+.

What is Prohibition about?

This Ken Burns documentary series chronicles the rise and fall of the 18th Amendment, which outlawed alcohol in the United States. The series earns its TV-14 rating primarily for its frank depiction of historical violence and mature themes. Parents should be aware of frequent discussions about the devastating societal…

How many seasons does Prohibition have?

Prohibition has 1 season covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in Prohibition?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across Prohibition.

How violent is Prohibition?

Violence isn't a standout concern across Prohibition per our reviewers.

Is the language in Prohibition appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across Prohibition.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Prohibition?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across Prohibition.

What mature themes appear in Prohibition?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of Prohibition.

Where can I read the full Prohibition parent guide?

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