Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Southpaw is a deeply compelling drama (starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Rachel McAdams) that shows boxing at its most brutal and dispiriting. Violent fight scenes include close-ups of gaping wounds, boxers vomiting blood, knockout punches, and more. Plus, a gun goes off in the middle of a brawl, killing an important character. But almost even harder to watch is the way the movie shows how the sport, depending on how you approach it, can change you and lure hangers-on. Expect plenty of swearing ("f--k," "s--t," and more), some drinking, implied sex, scantily clad women, and plenty of label-flashing. But the main characters have been devoted to each other since they were in their teens, and they love their daughter.

Sexual Content

A woman is shown astride a man; her underwear is showing, and he's groping her; it's clear they're about to have sex. Scantily clad women are shown marching around a boxing ring.

Violence

No punches are pulled when it comes to showing the price that a brutal fight exacts: There are plenty of close-ups of gaping wounds, boxers vomiting blood, swollen and battered faces, bleeding gums, knockout punches, and more. Plus, a gun goes off in the middle of a brawl, killing an important character. Another person is shown holding a different gun, seemingly contemplating suicide. He also points the gun at a mother and her children.

Language

Frequent strong language includes "f--k," "s--t," "damn," "p---y," "bitch," and more.

Social Behavior

No matter what circumstances you come from, you can find a way to transcend them and become a good citizen, especially if you have the support of a loving family and a network of true friends.

Consumerism

Brands/products shown include Cartier, Maserati, Adidas, Minute Maid, Dasani, Everlast, iPhone, Bud Light, HBO, Coca-Cola, Caesar's Palace.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

One character drinks a lot. Frank discussion about whether someone is "on" something.