Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that although this dramedy is ultimately upbeat, it isn't all sugary sweet. The protagonists -- strong female characters played by Amy Adams and Meryl Streep -- both undergo identity crises of sorts and must grapple with all that entails, a theme that may not appeal to tweens and under (though the soul-searching's not too deep).There's some swearing (including one use of "f--k"), and the movie's two married couples are comfortable displaying their physical affections, though there's no nudity or graphic love scenes.

Sexual Content

Married couples fall into bed, but there's no nudity except for the occasional bare shoulder. In a description for a food item, male genitalia is mentioned.

Violence

McCarthyism's insidious reach is a subtext of the film.

Language

"Bitch" pops up a few times, as do "damn," "s--t," and "hell." "F--k" is used once. Other words include "c--k," "ass," "crap," "hell," and "oh my God."

Social Behavior

Risk and bravery are rewarded, especially when they're accompanied by persistence and hard work. Both female protagonists have to pay their dues before they achieve success, especially Julia.

Consumerism

PayPal is mentioned; logos for Salon.com and James Farm butter are visible, as are specific cookbooks.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Social drinking and smoking (the latter occurring during mostly during the Julia Child segments, when it was more era-accurate).