the dreamers parents guide

2 min read 26-02-2025

The Bernardo Bertolucci film The Dreamers (2003) is a visually stunning and provocative exploration of youthful rebellion, sexual awakening, and the tumultuous backdrop of 1960s Paris. However, its explicit content makes it crucial for parents to understand what to expect before allowing their children to watch it. This guide will help parents decide if The Dreamers is appropriate for their family and how to approach discussions afterward.

Understanding the Film's Content

The Dreamers depicts the intense relationship between two American siblings, Matthew and his sister Isabelle, and a French student, Theo. Their connection unfolds against the backdrop of student protests and cultural upheaval. While the film explores themes of intellectualism, artistic passion, and political awakening, it does so through graphic and unflinching depictions of sexuality.

Explicit Sexual Content

The film features numerous explicit sex scenes, including scenes of a sexual nature between the three main characters. These scenes are not gratuitous; they are integral to the narrative's exploration of sexuality and liberation. However, their explicit nature makes the film unsuitable for younger viewers.

Violence and Disturbing Imagery

While not overly violent, The Dreamers contains some disturbing imagery related to the political climate of the time, including protests and riots. The film also touches upon themes of family dysfunction and sibling rivalry.

Themes of Identity and Rebellion

The film delves into complex themes of identity, rebellion, and the search for meaning in a changing world. These themes are relevant to teenagers and young adults, but the way they are portrayed may be too intense for some.

Is The Dreamers Appropriate for Your Child?

The film's explicit sexual content is its most significant hurdle for parental consideration. The film is rated NC-17 in the US, signifying that it is not suitable for viewers under 17. This rating accurately reflects the graphic nature of the film. Consider your child's maturity level, their understanding of sexuality, and their ability to handle complex and potentially disturbing themes.

Factors to Consider:

Age: The NC-17 rating is a strong indicator; this film is not suitable for children or younger teens.
Maturity Level: Even older teens may find the content disturbing or overwhelming.
Prior Exposure to Mature Content: Have they seen other films with similar themes and explicit content?
Open Communication: Are you comfortable having open and honest conversations with your child about the film's themes afterward?

Discussion Points for After Watching

If you choose to watch the film with your child (or allow them to watch it), it's crucial to have a conversation afterward. Possible discussion points include:

The portrayal of sexuality: Discuss the explicit nature of the scenes and their role in the story.
The political context: Discuss the historical context of the 1960s student protests in France.
The characters' motivations: Explore why the characters act the way they do.
The film's artistic merit: Discuss the film's visual style, cinematography, and overall artistic impact.

Conclusion: A Film Requiring Careful Consideration

The Dreamers is a complex and challenging film that is not suitable for all viewers. Its explicit content and intense themes necessitate careful consideration before viewing. Parents should weigh the film's artistic merit against its potentially disturbing content and have a frank discussion with their children before and after viewing, if they decide to permit it. Remember, open communication is key to navigating the complex issues raised by this powerful film.