Girl, Interrupted Parental Guidance Review and Ratings. Age rating, objectionable content, positive messages, cast overview, and family suitability.
- VERDICT: Girl, Interrupted may not be suitable for younger audience and parents pay absolute attention to guiding their youngsters in this regard.
- Release date: December, 1999
- Director: James Mangold
- Based on: Susanna Kaysen’s Girl, Interrupted
- Stars: Winona Ryder, Angelina Jolie, Clea DuVall, Brittany Murphy, Whoopi Goldberg, Elisabeth Moss, Angela Bettis, Vanessa Redgrave, and Jared Leto
- Genre: Biography, Drama
- Rating: R
Girl, Interrupted
Girl, Interrupted is a 1999 American drama film based on the 1993 memoir of the same name by Susanna Kaysen. The film, directed by James Mangold, stars Winona Ryder as Kaysen, a young woman who is diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and committed to Claymoore Psychiatric Hospital.
There, she befriends a group of other troubled women, including Lisa Rowe (Angelina Jolie), Daisy Randone (Brittany Murphy), and Polly Clark (Clea DuVall).
The film received positive reviews from critics, who praised the performances of Ryder and Jolie, as well as the film’s sensitive and realistic portrayal of mental illness. It was also a commercial success, grossing over $48 million worldwide.
One of the film’s strengths is its realistic portrayal of mental illness. The characters are all well-developed and believable, and the film does not shy away from showing the more difficult aspects of mental illness, such as self-harm and suicide.
The film also does a good job of showing the impact that mental illness can have on families and friends.
Another strength of the film is its performances. Winona Ryder gives a nuanced and sympathetic performance as Susanna Kaysen. She perfectly captures the character’s vulnerability, intelligence, and humor. Angelina Jolie is also excellent as Lisa Rowe, a charismatic and dangerous sociopath. Her performance is one of the most memorable in the film.
Overall, Girl, Interrupted is a powerful and moving film that provides a realistic and sensitive portrayal of mental illness. It is a must-see for anyone interested in this topic.
Age Rating and Overview
“Girl, Interrupted” is rated R, indicating that it is intended for mature audiences only. The movie is based on Susanna Kaysen’s memoir and depicts her experience of being committed to a mental institution after a suicide attempt.
Potentially Objectionable Content
Sex/Nudity: The movie contains numerous sexual references and innuendos, including mentions of incest, lesbianism, and fellatio. There are several kissing scenes, and in one instance, a woman briefly kisses another woman. There is an implied sexual act performed on a man. Brief nudity is shown, including scenes of a naked man at a distance, partial female nudity, and women bathing (only bare shoulders, arms, and legs are visible).
Violence/Gore: The film includes scenes of violence and gore. There is a depiction of a person hanging from a shower rod, with the corpse visible for a while. A woman’s hand is smashed in a sliding door, resulting in a bruised and bloody hand. Close-ups of self-inflicted cuts and a needle being injected into an arm are shown. There are instances of threatening self-harm with a pen and needle. Some pushing, shoving, and screaming occur, and a woman pulls a tube out of her throat and vomits. Additionally, a burn victim with a disfigured face is shown throughout the movie.
Language: The movie contains strong language, including about 55 instances of the F-word. There are also anatomical references, scatological references, mild obscenities, insults, racial slurs, and name-calling.
Positive Messages and Themes
“Girl, Interrupted” explores themes related to mental illness, despair, family, and the imperfect nature of mental institutions. The movie conveys the message that while mental institutions may have their flaws, they can still provide help to individuals who are willing to help themselves. It encourages understanding and empathy toward those struggling with mental health issues.
Family-Friendly Movie Review
“Girl, Interrupted” is not suitable for children or young teens due to its mature content, including sexual references, nudity, violence, and strong language. The movie’s R rating indicates that it is intended for adult audiences. Parents should exercise caution and make an informed decision based on their child’s age, maturity, and sensitivity to the topics depicted in the film.
If you feel your teenage child is ready to watch this movie, it can provide an opportunity for open discussions about mental health, empathy, and the importance of seeking help. However, parental guidance is strongly advised due to the explicit content and mature themes presented throughout the film.
What You Should Know
1. Is “Girl, Interrupted” suitable for my teenage child?
No, “Girl, Interrupted” is not suitable for teenage children due to its mature content, including sexual references, nudity, violence, and strong language. The movie’s R rating indicates that it is intended for adult audiences. Exercise caution and make an informed decision based on your child’s age, maturity, and sensitivity to the topics depicted in the film.
2. Can watching “Girl, Interrupted” help initiate discussions about mental health?
Absolutely. “Girl, Interrupted” provides an opportunity to have open and meaningful conversations about mental health, empathy, and the importance of seeking help. The movie depicts the complexities of mental illness and can help foster understanding and compassion in your child.
3. What are some of the mature themes explored in the movie?
The movie delves into themes such as suicide, mental illness, despair, casual sex, masochism, being institutionalized, the Vietnam War, family, infidelity, and incest. These topics are presented within the context of the characters’ experiences and can prompt discussions on these challenging subjects.
4. Are there any positive messages or takeaways from “Girl, Interrupted”?
Yes, “Girl, Interrupted” conveys the message that mental institutions, despite their imperfections, can offer help to individuals who want to help themselves. It highlights the importance of understanding and supporting those struggling with mental health issues, emphasizing the potential for personal growth and recovery.
5. How explicit is the sexual content in the movie?
The movie contains sexual innuendo, references to incest, lesbianism, and fellatio. There are kissing scenes, implied sexual acts, and instances of partial nudity. While explicit sexual scenes are not shown, the movie does include provocative moments and discussions that may not be suitable for younger viewers.
6. How violent and gory is “Girl, Interrupted”?
The movie features scenes of violence and gore. These include a depiction of a person hanging from a shower rod, self-inflicted cuts, a smashed hand, and instances of threatening self-harm. Some scenes involve pushing, shoving, screaming, and a character pulling out a tube and vomiting. Additionally, there are consistent visuals of a burn victim with a disfigured face.
7. What is the significance of the R rating for “Girl, Interrupted”?
The R rating indicates that the movie contains content suitable for mature audiences only. It serves as a strong warning for explicit sexual content, violence, language, and mature themes. Parents should carefully consider their child’s readiness and maturity before allowing them to watch the film.
8. How does “Girl, Interrupted” portray relationships?
The movie explores various relationships, including romantic and platonic connections. It delves into the complexities of these relationships, highlighting issues such as casual sex, infidelity, and familial connections. Use these instances as opportunities to discuss healthy relationships, consent, and respecting boundaries with your child.
9. Are there any scenes that may be particularly disturbing or intense?
Yes, there are scenes that depict self-harm, suicide, and discussions surrounding these topics. Additionally, the presence of a disfigured burn victim may be distressing for some viewers. If your child is sensitive to these themes or experiences distress, it is recommended to approach the movie with caution or opt for an alternative choice.
10. Can “Girl, Interrupted” be considered an educational movie?
While “Girl, Interrupted” provides insights into mental health and institutionalization, it is primarily a fictionalized narrative rather than a strictly educational film. It can, however, spark important conversations and prompt further exploration of mental health topics if approached with an open and reflective mindset.
11. How can I ensure my child’s well-being while watching “Girl, Interrupted”?
It’s important to create a safe and supportive environment for your child while watching the movie. Be available to answer their questions, address any concerns, and provide emotional support if certain scenes or themes are distressing. Engage in open dialogue before, during, and after the film to ensure your child’s well-being and understanding.
12. Should I watch “Girl, Interrupted” with my teenager?
If you feel your mature teenager is ready to watch “Girl, Interrupted” and engage in discussions about its themes, it can be an opportunity for growth and understanding. However, due to the explicit content and mature themes, parental guidance is strongly advised. Consider your child’s maturity, sensitivity, and readiness to handle the subject matter before making a decision.
The Verdict
“Girl, Interrupted” is a powerful and thought-provoking movie that delves into the complexities of mental health. While it offers valuable insights and important messages, parents should be aware of its explicit content, including sexual references, nudity, violence, and strong language. The R rating is indicative of its unsuitability for children and young teens. If you decide to watch this film with your mature teenage child, ensure you are prepared for discussions around the mature themes it presents.