Content breakdown
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Not recommended
# 12 Years a Slave - Parental Guide
This powerful historical drama depicts the brutal realities of American slavery and contains strong violence, including whipping and assault scenes that are disturbing and graphic. It also includes strong language and moderate sexual content. The film is appropriate only for mature teenagers who can handle difficult historical subject matter, not younger children.
Synopsis
In the pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup, a free black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery. Facing cruelty as well as unexpected kindnesses Solomon struggles not only to stay alive, but to retain his dignity. In the twelfth year of his unforgettable odyssey, Solomonโs chance meeting with a Canadian abolitionist will forever alter his life.
Cast

Chiwetel Ejiofor
Solomon Northup

Michael Fassbender
Edwin Epps

Benedict Cumberbatch
William Ford
Age suitability
Ages 6โ8
Not recommended
Ages 9โ12
Not recommended
Where to watch
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Ratings based on MPAA/TV classification and TMDB metadata. Updated March 2026.
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