Common Sense Media Review
By Danny Brogan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Spin-off to British cop show is full of threat and violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Luther: The Fallen Sun
What's the Story?
In LUTHER: THE FALLEN SUN, Detective Chief Inspector John Luther's (Idris Elba) wrongdoings come back to haunt him when he is sent to prison. But with a sadistic serial killer on the loose -- and one who seemingly wants Luther's attention -- Luther breaks out, determined to bring the killer to justice.
Is It Any Good?
Four years after the popular TV show seemingly concluded with season five, DCI John Luther is back in a movie spin-off. Those familiar with the show will know what to expect from Luther: The Fallen Sun: gruesome murders leading to a dangerous cat and mouse chase led by Elba's titular character. But even those new to the show will be able to enjoy this action-packed, adrenaline-rushing crime drama. All newcomers need to know is that Luther is a good copper, who does bad things, but for the right reasons. This time the detective must first get himself out of prison, having found himself banged up for his past discrepancies. But that turns out to be the least of his problems with Andy Serkis' deranged serial killer blackmailing, torturing, and killing victims he traps online. It's not for the fainthearted, and the central plot about a group of underground voyeurs watching people tortured and murdered online asks questions about the film itself. It's also far-fetched in places. But there's no denying there's a joy to see the maverick cop -- in his iconic grey trench coat and red tie -- back on our screens.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in Luther: The Fallen Sun. Did the violent scenes help tell the story in an effective way? Were there repercussions for those responsible for the violence? Why does that matter? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?
The movie is a spin-off of the TV show Luther. Had you seen the show before watching this movie? How did this compare? What did it add to the story?
Discuss the language used in the movie. Did it seem necessary, or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
The internet and how we behave on it is a key plot point. What do you understand the term "digital footprint" to mean? Why must we be careful of what we do online?
Movie Details
- In theaters : February 24, 2023
- On DVD or streaming : March 10, 2023
- Cast : Idris Elba , Cynthia Erivo , Andy Serkis
- Director : Jamie Payne
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Bisexual Movie Actor(s) , Middle Eastern/North African Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Netflix
- Genre : Drama
- Run time : 129 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : disturbing/violent content, language and some sexual material
- Last updated : March 6, 2023
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate