The Art of Joy (2024) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Sexual content is severe. Modesta engages in multiple sex scenes with various partners, often accompanied by partial nudity, thrusting, and moaning. There are also instances of implied sexual encounters, flirtation, and discussions of sexual desire. Modesta's sexuality is a key tool in her manipulation and ascent.

Violence is moderate. There are instances of implied or off-screen deaths, such as the initial tragedy that orphans Modesta. Characters might be threatened or physically restrained, and there's a reference to a character being beaten, but explicit graphic violence or gore is not shown.

Profanity is moderate, with occasional uses of strong language in emotional or confrontational moments. The dialogue, however, is generally refined, reflecting the period and setting, with most expletives kept off-screen or implied.

Alcohol use is mild, generally consisting of characters drinking wine or spirits socially during meals or gatherings. No explicit drug use or tobacco smoking is depicted, nor is intoxication a recurring plot point.

Themes are intense. The series explores ambition, manipulation, and power struggles, particularly through Modesta's journey from orphan to social climber. Abandonment, class disparities, and the restrictive societal expectations for women in early 20th-century Italy are central. Psychological manipulation and betrayal are recurring elements throughout the episodes.