Poster for Z: The Beginning of Everything

Z: The Beginning of Everything (2015) Parents Guide: Is the series OK for kids?

Age Rating, Sex, Violence & Language

A biography series based on the life of Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald, the brilliant, beautiful and talented Southern Belle who becomes the original flapper and icon of the wild, flamboyant Jazz Age in the 20s. Z starts before Zelda Fitzgerald meets the unpublished writer F. Scott Fitzgerald and moves through their passionate, turbulent love affair and their marriage-made in heaven, lived out in hell as the celebrity couple of their time.

TV-MA • 2015 • 1 season

6.9
Average rating by Bontent members
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Age
17+

Rated TV-MA, this biographical drama about Zelda and F. Scott Fitzgerald earns its rating primarily through strong sexual content and pervasive substance use. The series features multiple instances of full frontal and rear nudity for both male and female characters, as well as depicted sexual situations. The Jazz Age setting provides a backdrop for constant, heavy drinking and smoking, with the characters' descent into alcoholism being… Sign up for the full guide

Cast

Christina Ricci
Christina Ricci
David Hoflin
David Hoflin
David Strathairn
David Strathairn
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Is Z: The Beginning of Everything appropriate for kids?

Rated TV-MA, this biographical drama about Zelda and F. Scott Fitzgerald earns its rating primarily through strong sexual content and pervasive substance use. The series features multiple instances of full frontal and rear nudity for both male and female characters, as well as… Read more — free account

Content severity in Z: The Beginning of Everything Sign up for season-by-season breakdown

Substances Intense 10/10
Language Intense 10/10
Sex/Nudity Intense 10/10
Violence/Gore Intense 8/10
Mature Themes Intense 10/10

Sex and nudity in Z: The Beginning of Everything

There are several instances of strong sexual content, including passionate kissing, implied sexual encounters, and partial nudity. Zelda and Scott's physical relationship is a recurring element, sometimes shown explicitly with brief glimpses of breasts and buttocks. Sexual dialogue is also present, reflecting the characters' frankness about their desires.

Violence and gore in Z: The Beginning of Everything

Mild violence is present, primarily in the form of drunken fistfights between men, usually Scott and whoever he perceives as a rival or challenge. There are also dangerous pranks, like throwing bottles at cars, and arguments that become physically aggressive, though without severe injury.

Language in Z: The Beginning of Everything

Moderate use of profanity, including words like "damn," "hell," and "bitch." Stronger terms are used occasionally, often during arguments or moments of intense emotion between characters.

Drugs, alcohol, and smoking in Z: The Beginning of Everything

Frequent depictions of alcohol consumption, including social drinking at parties, in bars, and at home. Characters like Zelda and Scott are often shown drinking to excess, leading to intoxication and poor decisions. Smoking is also prevalent, reflecting the era.

Mature themes in Z: The Beginning of Everything

Key themes include the struggle for personal independence, especially for Zelda in a restrictive era, and the intense pressures of artistic ambition and public life. Marital discord, jealousy, infidelity (both suspected and implied), and mental health struggles are central to the narrative, particularly as Scott and Zelda's relationship becomes more strained.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Z: The Beginning of Everything appropriate for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Z: The Beginning of Everything is best for ages 17+. It's rated TV-MA. Rated TV-MA, this biographical drama about Zelda and F. Scott Fitzgerald earns its rating primarily through strong sexual content and pervasive substance use. The series features multiple instances of full frontal and…

What age rating does Z: The Beginning of Everything have?

Z: The Beginning of Everything is rated TV-MA. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 17+.

What is Z: The Beginning of Everything about?

Rated TV-MA, this biographical drama about Zelda and F. Scott Fitzgerald earns its rating primarily through strong sexual content and pervasive substance use. The series features multiple instances of full frontal and rear nudity for both male and female characters, as well as depicted sexual situations. The Jazz Age…

How many seasons does Z: The Beginning of Everything have?

Z: The Beginning of Everything has 1 season covered in this parent guide. Sign up to see a season-by-season breakdown.

Is there sex or nudity in Z: The Beginning of Everything?

Our reviewers didn't note meaningful sexual content across Z: The Beginning of Everything.

How violent is Z: The Beginning of Everything?

Violence isn't a standout concern across Z: The Beginning of Everything per our reviewers.

Is the language in Z: The Beginning of Everything appropriate for kids?

Strong language isn't flagged across Z: The Beginning of Everything.

Are drugs, alcohol, or smoking shown in Z: The Beginning of Everything?

Drug, alcohol, and smoking depictions are minimal across Z: The Beginning of Everything.

What mature themes appear in Z: The Beginning of Everything?

Heavy thematic material isn't a defining feature of Z: The Beginning of Everything.

Where can I read the full Z: The Beginning of Everything parent guide?

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