Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that To Be or Not to Be is an over-the-top farce that makes light of usually dark themes like adultery, WWII, and Nazis. There's quite a bit of adult innuendo (though no real sexy stuff is shown), and some goofy violence that isn't very graphic. Although it's a silly comedy, there are some intense scenes and themes that make the film best for older tweens and up.

Sexual Content

No nudity or actual sex scenes are shown, but adult relationships, including adultery, are central to the plot. One of the main characters creates an elaborate plan to have an affair with a pilot, and they're shown kissing and embracing. There's also quite a bit of sexual innuendo around their planned affair. There's also a very stereotypical portrayal of homosexuality and some semi-racy dance costumes.

Violence

There are several scenes that use old footage from WWII showing the destruction of war. One character is taken by the Gestapo and shown later with a bruised face. Two characters also shoot at each other and one is killed, though his death is behind the scenes and there's no blood or graphic violence shown. His body later shows up in multiple scenes, though it's used in a comedic way and isn't graphic.

Language

While there's no swearing in the movie, Frederick does use a gay slur in the line "Without Jews, fags, and gypsies, there is no theater." A Nazi soldier also refers to a gay character as a "sissy."

Social Behavior

Although the film is a slapstick comedy, it beautifully captures the message that no one should be persecuted based on their religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or lifestyle. This is best illustrated when one of the characters delivers a version of Shylock's speech from Hamlet to "Hitler" (being impersonated by Mel Brooks): "Hath not a Jew eyes, hath not a Jew hands?"

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable