The Batman: A Parents Guide

The Batman, a movie starring Robert Pattinson as the titular role, is now available to stream on HBO Max.  But a movie that’s basically a psychological thriller, is it appropriate for younger kids?  I’m answering that question and more in my spoiler free The Batman parents guide.  With a PG-13 rating that includes language, violence and some sexual content, here’s what parents need to know about The Batman.

The Batman:  A Parents Guide

Holy Batman.  Batman, based on a popular DC comic, has undergone several screen adaptations, with various actors portraying the infamous man in cape.  The latest actor to take on the role?  Robert Pattinson from Twilight, who is known for his scowls and brooding stares.  Sounds like a good fit for Batman to me!  In this particular adaptation, Batman is tracking down a serial killer who is killing off Gotham City’s politicians.  Along the way, he also learns some uncomfortable secrets about his family.  As a result, here’s what parents need to know about The Batman age rating.

What is The Batman Rated? 

The Batman is rated PG-13, which means that some material is not suitable for children under the age of 13.  For example, movies rated PG-13 might contain violence, nudity, sensuality, and/or brief language.  Here, the movie contains some sexual content, language, and violence.

Language

There are some curse words in this movie, but it isn’t excessive like the language used in recent Marvel movies like Black Widow or Shang-Chi.  However, while infrequent, characters do say words like “son of a b*tches,” d**k” and “g*d*mn.”  

Sexual Content/Drug References

Is there nudity in The Batman?  No.  However, there is some sexual content.  Some of the scenes occur in a seedy nightclub where women are scantily clad and abused.  There are also references to illegal drugs, specifically “drops.”  It’s a made up illegal drug for this particular movie, but between that and the sexual content, parents will have several concerns allowing their children to watch this movie.  And that’s not even the tip of the iceberg.  Which brings me to my next point……

Violence

This is why the The Batman age rating is primarily PG-13.  Indeed, I’m not quite sure why this movie was rated PG-13; it probably should have been rated R instead.  Characters are brutally murdered and often times in horrifying and frightening ways.  Characters are also tortured in the movie, sometimes with live animals.  In one particular scene, one character is heard begging for her life before she is strangled to death.  And those are just a few examples of the violence depicted in the movie.  For example, there are also scenes involving weapons like guns, bombs, and a very disturbing scene that results in a mass casualty event.  There are also several horror elements to this movie.  As a result, the graphic violence depicted in the movie could frighten young kids.    

Overall Thoughts

My husband and I saw this movie without our 9 year old son.  And it was a good decision on our part.  As a parent, always use your discretion.  The movie is very dark, and quite violent.  There were a few scenes where even I had to close my eyes, and I enjoy a good psychological thriller.  This movie also clocks in at almost 3 hours so it can be challenging to sit through at times, especially for kids.

As for me, I really enjoyed the movie.  The plot really drew me in, it was well paced (at least until the end) and the gritty atmosphere of Gotham City was depicted well. Robert Pattinson is great in his role as Batman (although I still think Christian Bale is my favorite) and Zoe Kravitz as Selina Kyle is phenomenal.  Based upon the success of this movie, I wouldn’t be surprised if we get to see them again in a sequel.  

About The Batman

Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne. Two years of stalking the streets as the Batman (Robert Pattinson), striking fear into the hearts of criminals, has led Bruce Wayne deep into the shadows of Gotham City. With only a few trusted allies—Alfred Pennyworth (Andy Serkis), Lt. James Gordon (Jeffrey Wright)—amongst the city’s corrupt network of officials and high-profile figures, the lone vigilante has established himself as the sole embodiment of vengeance amongst his fellow citizens.