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Battle in Seattle

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 16, age appropriate for kids over 18; suggested age 16.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Political ensemble drama is provocative, preachy.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 16–18

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Extensive discussion of the nature of political protest, the World Trade Organization, corporate ownership of property, and the nature of global capital; extensive discussion of First Amendment rights and violent vs. non-violent protest.

  • Violence:

    Destruction of private property; police response to protestors includes pepper spray, tear gas, rubber bullets, beatings with truncheons, and more. A pregnant woman is struck in the stomach with a truncheon by a passing policeman; viewers see her agony, blood, and suffering as she loses the baby. Protesters are pepper-sprayed at close range and with great vigor by police. An accidental death is often referenced but takes place off screen.

  • Sex:

    Morning-after chat between two lovers; kissing; some sexual language.

  • Language:

    Occasional strong language includes "damn," "hell," "f--k," "s--t," and "motherf---er." Police are referred to as "pigs."

  • Consumerism:

    Some brands -- like Starbucks -- are visible in the background.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    One character smokes; characters drink hard liquor.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Battle in Seattle

Parents need to know that this drama about the volatile environment in Seattle during the World Trade Organization meeting in 1999 features realistic depictions of political protest, from putting up unauthorized banners to street marching and blockading intersections. The police response to some of these protests is equally realistic, ranging from tear gas and pepper spray to brutal beatings. Teens may not be clamoring to see a movie that features extensive discussion of political and economic issues like free speech and free trade, but if they see it, they may find themselves interested in learning more about the topics it raises. Expect some swearing, smoking, and drinking.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the many social, political, and economic topics that the film raises, from concerns about corporate control of the media to the environmental ramifications of modern industry. Families can also discuss whether a film like this is made to provide answers or provoke questions. Do you think the filmmakers are playing favorites in their arguments and scenes? Is it OK for movies based on real-life events to have a particular bias toward one "side" or the other?
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