Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this thought-provoking drama doesn't focus much on the nature of Charles Darwin's research but instead on the lengthy and overwrought process he undergoes to write his famous book, On the Origin of Species. Characters debate God and religion intensely and are torn apart by grief surrounding a child's death -- themes that might be too weighty for young teens and tweens. There's also some swearing (mostly words like "bulls--t") and brief scenes of non-sexual nudity.

Sexual Content

Nothing suggestive or overt, but a man is shown naked in a makeshift shower (no genitalia visible). He and his wife discuss the fact that they're cousins who fell in love with each other.

Violence

A man feels tortured by his worries and work, causing him to hallucinate, which creates a menacing tone. Shots of fetuses floating in jars; a bird's neck is broken in the name of science. (Many bird carcasses, in fact, are shown in a lab.) The naked body of a teen dead from smallpox flashes across the screen. A fox attacks a rabbit.

Language

A smattering of "goddammit" and "bulls--t."

Social Behavior

The film celebrates people's right to disagree, even husbands and wives, as long as they're respectful of each other's views. It also applauds curiosity and hard work against all odds, plus the healing power of love.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable