Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that because the basic plot involves a teen girl disguised as a young man, there are numerous scenes that place Yentl in embarrassing and uncomfortable situations, some of them with sexual overtones (i.e., Yentl being in the presence of several young men as they strip and jump naked into a pond). Though there is no actual sexual activity, the "marriage" ceremony performed between Yentl and another young woman is taken seriously by the "bride" and she attempts to make love to her husband, unaware that it is Yentl, a girl. These scenes are presented in a gentle way and do not emphasize sexuality. There is occasional wine drinking both in social situations and for religious ceremonial purposes.

Sexual Content

Some bare male bottoms seen from rear as a group of young men dive into a pond. One scene suggests a naked young man is standing in front of a young woman, however, since the woman is disguised as a "boy," the man is not aware of his inappropriate behavior. She's embarrassed and looks away. Multiple sequences in which a young bride behaves in a shyly seductive manner in the bedroom, unaware that the "groom" is a girl in disguise. One gentle kiss.

Violence

Not applicable

Language

Not applicable

Social Behavior

Although the film's heroine is a girl who "dishonestly" disguises herself as a boy, her reasons are honorable. Overall, the film holds that courage, integrity, compassion, and striving to do one's best are values of the highest order. The main thematic message is that it's righteous and important to fight for individual liberty rather than accept a role dictated by religious and/or cultural prejudices. Though set in the very early 20th century and made in the 1980s, the issues raised here are as relevant today as ever.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Some pipe smoking, moderate amount of wine drunk at dinner and on social occasions, shots of whiskey with no drunkenness.