Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that the only thing that's likely to draw teens to this slow-moving period drama is the fact that star Keira Knightley bares her breasts in one of the film's sensual love scenes. She's not the only one; two other women are shown topless as well, and men are briefly seen naked in profile. On the plus side, there's no profanity and not much violence (though a teenage character is shown hanged, and the main character comes across some burned dead bodies in a ruined village). But the movie's subjects -- the true measure of love and the cost of infidelity -- are definitely aimed more at adults than younger viewers.
Sexual
Content
Sensual love scenes include naked breasts (some seen in close-up) and simulated intercourse (one of the scenes is an adulterous encounter). Men are also briefly seen naked in profile. Other intimate interactions between characters include a scene in which a woman caresses a man while he's in the bath, and another in which a man observes a naked woman bathing in a hot spring.
Violence
A gun trader passes through a small Japanese village with his wares; Herve sees burned buildings and dead bodies after war comes to the village. A teenage boy is hanged (viewers see his dangling body) for breaking the local leader's rules. The leader threatens Herve with a gun.
Language
Not applicable
Social
Behavior
A married man is unfaithful; he trespasses into a country that forbids Westerners; he also visits a brothel (but doesn't avail himself of its services). Nevertheless, he's also devoted to his wife and helps care for a child abandoned by its father. He also risks his life to help save his village from financial ruin.
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Some sake-drinking and toasting; some other social drinking and smoking (accurate for the time period). Nothing excessive.
