Based on Elin Hilderbrand’s novel of the same name, The Perfect Couple might initially seem like a lighthearted family show, especially with its upbeat opening dance number. However, beneath the surface lies a twisty murder mystery that warrants a closer look, particularly for parents considering watching it with their teenagers. While officially rated TV-MA, this series presents a nuanced content landscape that requires careful consideration.
This guide breaks down the mature elements present in The Perfect Couple to help you decide if it’s appropriate for your older teens. We’ll delve into the specifics of sex and nudity, violence and gore, language, and drug and alcohol use, offering a comprehensive overview beyond the surface rating.
Understanding the TV-MA Rating of The Perfect Couple
The TV-MA rating suggests content intended for mature audiences only, typically adults. However, The Perfect Couple occupies a somewhat milder space within this category. Let’s examine the components that contribute to this rating:
Decoding Sex & Nudity Content
In terms of sex and nudity, The Perfect Couple is relatively tame. The series includes a few scenes that imply sexual activity, depicting characters before or after intimate moments. However, it refrains from showing anything explicit or graphic on screen. For parents concerned about overly explicit sexual content, this aspect of the show is unlikely to be a major concern.
Analyzing Violence & Gore Levels
Despite being centered around a murder mystery, The Perfect Couple surprisingly minimizes on-screen violence and gore. While the discovery of a body on the beach sets the central plot in motion, the series avoids graphic depictions of violence. Viewers do see the deceased body, but without blood or visible, gruesome wounds. Even injuries to a character’s feet are kept discreetly covered. Therefore, for viewers sensitive to graphic violence or gore, The Perfect Couple is generally manageable.
Language Concerns: The F-Bomb Factor
The primary driver behind the TV-MA rating for The Perfect Couple is its language. The series features a noticeable number of instances of strong profanity, most notably the F-word. This strong language is the most prominent mature element and is likely the key factor pushing the show into the TV-MA category. If strong language is a significant concern for your family viewing choices, this is an area to be aware of.
Depictions of Drugs & Alcohol
The Perfect Couple portrays frequent alcohol consumption and smoking throughout the series. The initial episodes are set against the backdrop of wedding celebrations, involving toasts and social drinking. As the murder investigation unfolds, characters are shown using alcohol and cigarettes as coping mechanisms to manage stress and anxiety.
Furthermore, the series touches upon prescription medication use by one character dealing with a medical condition. There is also a brief mention of considering marijuana for medicinal purposes, although this is not visually depicted. The presence of substance use, particularly alcohol and smoking, is another contributing factor to the show’s mature rating.
Is The Perfect Couple Suitable for Teens? A Parent’s Perspective
While The Perfect Couple carries a TV-MA rating, its content leans towards the milder end of the spectrum. It arguably sits at a level that might be considered appropriate for older teenagers, especially those with an interest in the mystery and thriller genres. In countries like the UK and Canada, content of this nature might receive a 15 or 16 rating, suggesting suitability for mature teens.
For families with older teenagers who are mature enough to handle moderate language, implied sexual situations, and thematic elements of murder and investigation, The Perfect Couple could be considered. It’s particularly relevant for teens who have enjoyed the original book or are drawn to murder mystery narratives.
Ultimately, parental discretion is advised. Consider your teen’s maturity level and sensitivity to the elements outlined above. The Perfect Couple offers an engaging storyline, but understanding its content nuances is key to making an informed viewing decision for your family.
