Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Freeheld is based on the real-life relationship between New Jersey police detective Laurel Hester (Julianne Moore) and Stacie Andree (Ellen Page), a young auto mechanic 18 years her junior. It's an inspiring story about a hard-fought struggle for equality under the law, but it's also difficult to watch because it shows a woman with stage 4 cancer trying desperately to get her partner benefits after she dies -- themes that are too intense for younger viewers. The film doesn't shy away from showing what a cancer-stricken person looks and sounds like, and there are scenes that show gun shots and drug busts. You can also expect some swearing ("s--t," "a--hole") and the use of homophobic slurs on a few occasions. Sexual content is limited to a tender embrace/kiss between the main characters.

Sexual Content

A couple is shown in a loving embrace, kissing and touching each other.

Violence

The film shows cops at work: running after criminals, shooting their guns, being shot at, being dragged by cars, etc. In another scene, a tender moment is interrupted by harassment. Not violent, but sad/distressing are scenes showing a character dying of cancer.

Language

Relatively frequent swearing includes "bitch," "a--hole," "t-ts," "s--t," "f-g," and more. Middle-finger gesture.

Social Behavior

Everyone is entitled to equality. Also, persistence pays off, and love is a powerful thing.

Consumerism

Products/brands seen/mentioned include Dell, Sony, BMW, Ford, New Balance, and Entenmann's.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Social drinking. The movie starts off with a drug bust; paraphernalia is seen.