Going into a movie blind can be a great experience, letting the story unfold as the director intended. However, when deciding whether a film is appropriate for yourself or your children, a little preparation can be helpful. This parent’s guide for “Where the Crawdads Sing” will help you understand the content so you can make an informed decision.
Violence
Not all violence in film is the same. “Where the Crawdads Sing” contains a darker, more impactful type of violence than simple action-movie explosions. The violence is less about entertainment and more about portraying the harsh realities of the characters’ lives.
The primary form of violence depicted is domestic abuse. The film opens with scenes of a father physically abusing his wife and children. These instances of domestic violence are recurring throughout the movie, appearing in different relationships. There is also a disturbing scene where a main character is beaten and narrowly escapes a sexual assault. While not explicitly graphic, the scene’s implications can be upsetting.
Language
The language in “Where the Crawdads Sing” includes some swear words, but nothing beyond what is typically permitted in a PG-13 movie. However, the most troubling language isn’t necessarily the individual words themselves, but the messages they convey.
Because the film’s tone is rooted in the domestic violence present from the beginning, there are instances of verbal abuse and bullying. This type of dialogue might be more relatable and disturbing for some viewers than the language often heard in an action film.
Sex
As mentioned earlier, there is a scene involving an attempted sexual assault. This scene does not depict any nudity or graphic acts. The movie also contains scenes of passionate kissing that lead to a romantic love scene. However, the film does not feature any nudity.
Disturbing Content
“Where the Crawdads Sing” is a murder mystery woven into a love story. This can make it easy to overlook the underlying themes of domestic and verbal abuse. These forms of abuse are crucial to understanding the main character and her story.
It’s worth noting that many people have real-world experiences with abuse. Consider this when deciding whether to watch the movie, especially if you or someone you know is sensitive to such content. Going in prepared can help prevent being caught off guard.
In conclusion, “Where the Crawdads Sing” presents mature themes of violence, language, and disturbing content including a sexual assault. While rated PG-13, it is important to consider individual sensitivities and the potential impact of these themes before viewing. Knowing what to expect will allow you to make the right viewing choices for you and your family.
