Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this classic musical is entertaining for all ages, though it may be too long (almost three hours) for the youngest kids. It's a biting satire that treats both the most egotistical snob and the "lowliest" street person with gentle humor and respect. It's also a romantic story without even a kiss. There are no villains; there's no violence (a few references to beating a woman for misbehaving are intended to be humorous). With the exception of one "ass" and a couple of "damns," there's no iffy language, either. A few scenes depict moderate drinking on social occasions, there's one shot of a tipsy bridegroom on the way to his wedding, and one main character smokes a cigar.
Sexual
Content
Not applicable.
Violence
One humorous scene in which Eliza is forced against her will to bathe, probably for the very first time in her life. She howls and shrieks as she tries to avoid the bath, but the tone is comedic, not threatening. In one later scene, Eliza gets angry at Professor Higgins, throws his slippers at him, and raises a hand as if to strike him. Humorous references to beating a woman for misbehaving.
Language
A single use of "ass," and a few "damns" as an introduction to a song.
Social
Behavior
The movie draws a sharp, satirical contrast between Britain's lower and upper classes in the early 1900s, then shows that even a "lowly," uneducated person can succeed given desire, persistence, and an education. At the same time, a well-bred member of the upper class -- an outspoken misogynist and elitist -- learns a lot about women, as well as about superficial appearance versus inner beauty (ultimately, the sexism that propels him is shown as a handicap). Also, true love can appear in the most unexpected places.
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Eliza's father is referred to as a heavy drinker. Some drinking of wine or cocktails in social settings. Professor Higgins smokes a cigar. An exuberant scene in a pub shows characters toasting and drinking with whiskey, beer, etc. as they prepare to attend a wedding.
