Parents need to know that this movie features PG-13-style peril and swordfights and characters are wounded and killed. Edmund is beaten in prison by a warden who clearly enjoys torturing the prisoners. Though it 's not explicitly shown, viewers hear screams and see his extensive scars. A character attempts suicide, and there's a suggestion that suicide is an honorable way to respond to discovery of dishonor. There's a non-explicit sexual situation, references to adultery, and a child conceived out of wedlock. Omitted from the movie are the book's depiction of character's use of opium and a concubine.

Families can talk about what made Fernand turn from Edmund's friend into his enemy. Why did it make Fernand angry that Edmund was "happier with his whistle than (he) was with his pony?" How do we see that Edmund is at first too trusting and then not trusting enough? What does it mean to say, "treason is a matter of dates?" What does it mean to say, "perhaps the thoughts of revenge are serving God's purpose of keeping you alive?" Or that "neglect becomes our ally?" How did hope change Edmund's attitude during his beatings? Why does he want to hold on to his hatred? How does Edmund determine the revenge that will be most painful for each of his foes?