Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Spotlight chronicles the events leading up to the Boston Globe's trailblazing articles, published in 2002, about Boston priests abusing children -- and the perpetrators' superiors covering it up. It's an intense subject, and characters discuss the wrongs that were done to them with much pain and discomfort, which isn't easy to watch, but the movie ultimately offers valuable messages about the importance of exposing wrongs and making those who abuse their power accountable for their crimes. Expect some swearing (mostly "s--t") and verbal sexual references, loud arguing, and somewhat graphic (and definitely disturbing) accounts of kids being abused, as well as hints of their reliance on drugs and alcohol. Characters are also seen smoking.

Sexual Content

Some spoken sexual references/terms. But, really, the only content in the film related to sex is violent in nature (details in "Violence" section).

Violence

Fairly graphic descriptions of children being sexually molested and assaulted and suffering physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual abuse. Some yelling in intense scenes.

Language

Language isn't constant but includes "a--hole," "s--t," and "f--k."

Social Behavior

The truth must be told, no matter how unpleasant or painful. Those who abuse their power must be brought to justice. Journalists play an important, necessary role in exposing what some might prefer to keep hidden.

Consumerism

A few brands/labels seen, including Toyota.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

A character smokes in one scene; in another, a man glimpses track marks (from drug use) on someone.