Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Rosewater, based on a memoir by journalist Maziar Bahari and written and directed by The Daily Show's Jon Stewart, has some disturbing moments; a big chunk of the movie takes place in a prison, where detainees are beaten and mentally tortured. In a particularly harrowing sequence, the main character is led to believe that he's going to be shot. Other scenes are comprised of real-life news footage that shows demonstrators clashing with military personnel, who hit, kick, and shoot at them. There's some swearing, primarily "sh-t" and "f--k," and social drinking. Although the story is intense, its messages about finding personal strength and overcoming adversity are definitely worthwhile.

Sexual Content

Some flirtatious banter between husband and wife, plus other tender moments. A character describes sexy massages. A character is asked whether his Western magazines and movies are "porn."

Violence

News footage includes disturbing images of militia hitting people with sticks and shooting into crowds, with bloody bodies shown on the streets. A prisoner is subjected to mental, emotional, and physical abuse under interrogation. In one scene, a man beats him up, kicking him while he's down. In another, he's made to believe he's about to be shot (it's a particularly harrowing moment).

Language

Strong but relatively infrequent language includes multiple uses of both "s--t" and "f--k." Also "a--hole."

Social Behavior

Nobody can defeat you unless you let them, and you're a lot stronger than you think you are, especially if you hold on to humor and hope. Illustrates the importance of democracy and having a voice in how your country is governed -- and of not being afraid to tell the truth and to report the truth (i.e. ethical journalism).

Consumerism

Brands/products seen or mentioned include Facebook, Twitter, Apple, Newsweek, Honda, and Nescafe.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

A journalist is shown taking swigs out of a bottle after a particularly hard time. Some social drinking. Discussion of a leader possibly giving addicts money to buy opium.