Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Thirteen Days, a docudrama about the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, is exciting and suspenseful, even though the actual outcome is well known. The film is a recreation of a crucial incident in American history that's suitable for teens and mature tweens, as well as adults. There's frequent swearing used to heighten the emotional impact (i.e., "bastard," "asshole," "s--t," "Jesus Christ," one use of "f--k"). Because the film is set in the 1960s, smoking is a casual part of many of the meetings in the White House. Alcoholic beverages are consumed in several scenes, never to excess. President John F. Kennedy is seen taking a prescription drug on one occasion.

Sexual Content

Not applicable

Violence

Cuban soldiers fire at U.S. planes, some of which are slightly damaged. There are some tense moments as enemy ships engage in a standoff. A plane is shot down and we learn that the pilot has been killed.

Language

Frequent swearing: "balls," "s--t," "hell," "bastard," "crap," "ass," "goddamn," "Jesus Christ," one use of "f--k" and one ethnic slur "Jap carrier."

Social Behavior

Behind-the-scenes White House intrigue shows how fragile the international political climate can be. By the film's end, the audience fully recognizes the importance of having men of goodwill and superior leadership in positions of power. Clearly it's easy to destabilize a world with such different ideologies, voices, and motives. It takes bravery, intelligence, and the support of other leaders to keep the world safe.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Men consume alcoholic beverages in moderation during some meetings and private conversations. Smoking is seen in the background of many of the White House discussions. President Kennedy swallows some pills in one scene.