Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that Effie Gray is a period drama set in Victorian England that examines the real-life marriage between acclaimed art critic John Ruskin and his young bride, Effie (Dakota Fanning). Their relationship is deeply unhappy, and as he grows more distant and cruel, she starts looking for an escape. There's some drinking and several oblique discussions about the couple's lack of physical intimacy; scenes show Effie undressing (viewers see her nightgown falling to the floor) and a man's naked behind, from a distance. She's nearly assaulted in one scene and must flee through dark alleys. Some of the language may seem stilted, but the film could provoke discussion between parents and teens about what makes for a good union.
Sexual
Content
Movie revolves around a young woman in a loveless, sexless marriage. Several discussions about the lack of physical intimacy in their relationship, albeit in the genteel, circumspect conversational patterns of the time. One scene shows Effie undressing; viewers see her nightgown falling to the floor. A nude man is later seen from behind, from a distance.
Violence
A woman is groped and nearly assaulted, and she must flee through a succession of dark and isolated alleys. A husband and wife use cruel words to each other during arguments.
Language
Not applicable
Social
Behavior
Even in Victorian England, a woman can learn to stand up for herself and doesn't have to settle for a life of emotional abuse from a cruel and neglectful husband.
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Some social drinking at dinner parties.
