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The Crimson Rivers (2018) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

Old-school police detective Pierre Niemans and his former student Camille Delaunay tackle complex, brutal murder cases.

TV-MA • 2018 • 4 seasons

6.6
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
17+

This dark French crime procedural follows two detectives as they investigate a series of exceptionally brutal and bizarre murders. The series is intended for a mature audience due to its pervasive and graphic violence, which is the primary reason for caution. Viewers can expect to see gruesome crime scenes with mutilated bodies, including decapitation, dismemberment, and disembowelment, as well as scenes of torture and bloody… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Olivier Marchal
Olivier Marchal
Erika Sainte
Erika Sainte
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Is The Crimson Rivers appropriate for kids?

This dark French crime procedural follows two detectives as they investigate a series of exceptionally brutal and bizarre murders. The series is intended for a mature audience due to its pervasive and graphic violence, which is the primary reason for caution. Viewers can expect… Read more — free account

Content severity in The Crimson Rivers Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Moderate 4/10
Language Intense 10/10
Sex/Nudity Intense 10/10
Violence/Gore Intense 10/10
Mature Themes Intense 10/10

Sex and nudity in The Crimson Rivers

Sexual content is minimal, with no explicit nudity or sex scenes. There are occasional references to sexual acts or prostitution as part of the criminal investigations, but these are generally implied or discussed in a detached manner as details of a case. Sexual assault is mentioned as part of a character's history or a crime, but never depicted graphically.

Violence and gore in The Crimson Rivers

Violence is severe and often graphic, focusing primarily on the aftermath of gruesome murders. Crime scenes feature detailed depictions of mutilated bodies, including victims drained of blood, ritualistic carvings, and significant blunt force trauma. Shootings, stabbings, and chase sequences with physical altercations are also present. The first two episodes feature a train hitting a school bus, leading to fatalities and a subsequent string of murders related to it.

Language in The Crimson Rivers

Profanity is frequent and strong, including numerous uses of 'f**k,' 'sh*t,' and other expletives in both dialogue and exclamations, particularly during intense investigation scenes or confrontations. The language remains consistent with previous seasons, contributing to the gritty atmosphere.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in The Crimson Rivers

Characters are occasionally seen drinking alcohol, typically wine with meals or in social settings, without a focus on intoxication. Smoking of cigarettes or vaping is present in some scenes, reflecting character habits rather than significant plot points. No illicit drug use is depicted.

Mature themes in The Crimson Rivers

This season explores intense psychological and philosophical themes, including the nature of evil, occult practices, and the psychological impact of trauma and isolation. Cases involve deeply disturbed individuals, cult-like groups, and the examination of human depravity. Themes of grief, revenge, and the fragility of sanity are present throughout the investigations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Crimson Rivers appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests The Crimson Rivers is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. This dark French crime procedural follows two detectives as they investigate a series of exceptionally brutal and bizarre murders. The series is intended for a mature audience due to its pervasive and graphic violence…

What age rating does The Crimson Rivers have?

The Crimson Rivers is rated TV-MA. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 17+.

What is The Crimson Rivers about?

This dark French crime procedural follows two detectives as they investigate a series of exceptionally brutal and bizarre murders. The series is intended for a mature audience due to its pervasive and graphic violence, which is the primary reason for caution. Viewers can expect to see gruesome crime scenes with…

How many seasons does The Crimson Rivers have?

The Crimson Rivers has 4 seasons covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in The Crimson Rivers?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across The Crimson Rivers.

How violent is The Crimson Rivers?

Violence isn't a standout concern across The Crimson Rivers per our reviewers.

Is the language in The Crimson Rivers appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across The Crimson Rivers.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in The Crimson Rivers?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across The Crimson Rivers.

What mature themes appear in The Crimson Rivers?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of The Crimson Rivers.

Where can I read the full The Crimson Rivers parent guide?

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