Common Sense Media Review
Optically brilliant, violent update of classic.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Romeo + Juliet
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 17 parent reviews
Parents say that this modern adaptation of Shakespeare's classic successfully infuses romance, tragedy, and stylized violence while remaining true to the original dialogue, making it engaging for both teens and adults. However, some reviewers note that the film's graphic violence and mature themes may not be suitable for younger audiences, even as it serves as a relevant tool for understanding the text.
- stylized violence
- modern adaptation
- suitable for teens
- mature themes
- engaging portrayal
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 97 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is a unique and captivating reimagining of a classic love story, successfully blending Shakespearean language with a modern setting, though some find the themes of violence and romance too mature for younger viewers. Many recommend it for older children and teens, citing the need for parental guidance due to its mature content, while expressing admiration for the performances and overall storytelling.
- classic love story
- modern adaptation
- mature themes
- performance praise
- viewer discretion
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Against the crumbling backdrop of political and social hierarchy, a chance meeting through a neon fish tank at a masquerade ball begets a desperate pact of love between star-crossed lovers Romeo (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Juliet (Claire Danes). The well-to-do Capulets have chosen Paris (Paul Rudd), a dashing but dull TIME magazine cover boy, heir to glitzy Verona Beach, to wed Juliet. However, it's Romeo, son of the rival Montague clan, who captures her heart. The vengeance-seeking broods of both families clash during a deadly beachfront shoot-out. Sadly, the couple's final reunion ends in devastation for both families.
Is It Any Good?
Director Baz Luhrmann's whirling dervish adaptation of the classic tale of ROMEO + JULIET is replete with glowing surfaces, quick-cutting action, and a soundtrack that bites. This is Shakespeare for Generation X, Y, and Z. Any teenager growing up in the mid 90s will attest to the unbeatable hipness of this movie. Neon crucifixes, dazzling skylines, and festive fireworks literally light up the screen in this film. The real electricity, however, lies in the chemistry between Danes and DiCaprio. There is not a single element of the production unaffected by Luhrmann's restless mercurial bravado, including the acting, wardrobe, and set design. Thankfully, the transported text survives the transition between eras, due to the director's attention to detail.
The film's bouncing soundtrack, MTV-style cinematography, and all-star cast will have teens begging to see Romeo + Juliet. Parents are cautioned against permitting tweens and under to view this film due to its extreme violence, gross materialism, and sexual innuendo. And it is best if parents accompany their kids who are allowed to view this graphic retelling of the classic.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about issues such as conflict-resolution, peer pressure, and their alternatives.
What could the Montagues and Capulets have done in order to make peace?
Were there alternatives to Romeo and Juliet's choices?
Did they truly believe suicide was the only way, and if so, what circumstances in the film drove them to feel this way?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 1, 1996
- On DVD or streaming : May 25, 1999
- Cast : Claire Danes , John Leguizamo , Leonardo DiCaprio
- Director : Baz Luhrmann
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Twentieth Century Fox
- Genre : Drama
- Run time : 120 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : scenes of contemporary violence and some sensuality
- Last updated : December 11, 2025
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