The much-anticipated sequel Wonder Woman 1984 is finally in theaters and on HBO Max, and with the ability to watch it from the comfort of our own homes, more families than ever may be considering watching the movie together. Parents may love the empowered heroine at the center of the story and the positive messages, but they may also be wondering if the movie overall is appropriate for their kids. We’ve put together this handy list, covering everything from its action sequences to its themes to its language, for parents to consider before deciding to watch Wonder Woman 1984 with their kids.
Related: Surprise! Gal Gadot’s 2 Daughters Have a Cameo in Wonder Woman 1984
- There’s typical superhero movie violence.
While Wonder Woman 1984 certainly isn’t a G-rated adventure, it also doesn’t reach Deadpool levels of brutal violence. The action sequences are pretty standard for a superhero movie, as Wonder Woman does battle against humans who have guns and against supervillains who have supernatural powers. Later in the film, things definitely get a little scary and tense, but it’s nothing that anyone who’s seen similar movies should be worried about. - Profanity pops up, but mostly for humor.
The PG-13 rating is accurate – the language in the movie is mostly family-friendly, with a few minor uses of profanity. You’re definitely not going to run into characters rattling off a bunch of F-bombs here! The most noticeable use of profanity is a humorous “Well, sh*t!” - The movie isn’t completely sexless.
While the first Wonder Woman movie only insinuated a sexual relationship between two characters, it’s much more obvious in Wonder Woman 1984. There’s a scene in which a couple wake up in bed together and share some flirty banter and affection. It’s pretty clear – to older viewers, at least – what’s transpired off screen, but it’s all very tasteful, nonexplicit, and in the context of a loving relationship. - Assault and harassment are depicted.
One character in particular is shown to be the victim of street harassment and catcalling, resulting in some tense and realistically fearful moments. Later, there’s violent retribution for one of the perpetrators – something to keep in mind, as the topic of harassment is one that many families may wish to discuss. - The movie is relatively long.
Squirmy younger viewers may struggle to get through Wonder Woman 1984 in one sitting. The movie clocks in at a whopping two hours and 35 minutes. There’s also a mid-credits scene that’s worth catching, so for families watching the movie at home, it may be useful to take advantage of the ability to pause for a stretch break in the middle. - Parents should take the PG-13 rating as accurate.
The rating for Wonder Woman 1984 accurately reflects the movie’s content overall. There are big action sequences, but the focus is more on the stunning stunt work than the actual violence. There are moments that may be nerve-racking for young viewers, but nothing outright terrifying or horrifying. It is, in short, a typical superhero movie, so judge your family’s viewing capabilities and preferences accordingly. - There are plenty of positive and empowering messages.
Embedded in between all the action sequences (and ’80s fashions!) are some pretty powerful and uplifting messages. Like the previous Wonder Woman installment, the movie focuses on a powerful heroine, but she’s not perfect – she has to learn and evolve to reach her fullest potential. Characters have to make sacrifices and stand up for what’s right, instead of what’s easy, and the concept of selfish greed itself may as well be another villain in the movie. Even the villains are able to see the errors of their ways, rather than being irredeemable baddies. These might not be new ideas, but it’s nice to see them highlighted no matter what!
