Common Sense Media Review
By Kat Halstead
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Biographical drama has language, sex, suicide references.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Sylvia
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In SYLVIA, poet Sylvia Plath (Gwyneth Paltrow) meets fellow writer Ted Hughes (Daniel Craig), and the two embark on a romantic relationship that both inspires and frustrates their creative talent. As Ted's success soars and their marriage falters, Sylvia retreats into darkness, where she begins to create some of her greatest work.
Is It Any Good?
Two Hollywood actors playing two iconic poets, this biographical drama definitely has star power. Both Paltrow and Craig give engaging performances, but Paltrow's character in particular feels underwritten to the point that Sylvia never quite lives up to the potential that's surely offered up on a plate by these infamous characters. The 1950s era is beautifully realized, particularly in the costumes by multi-Oscar winner Sandy Powell, and there are some great portrayals of darkness and fragmented psyche evoked in the set design and cinematography. Overall, it's an enjoyable and informative look at a fascinating figure, just lacking the power and complexity of its subject.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how mental health struggles are portrayed in Sylvia. How did the main character describe her own experience? How did her behavior reflect this?
Both Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes are now iconic poets. Have you read any of their poetry? Did the movie make you interested in researching further? How did the film portray poetry as a creative outlet?
The movie is a biographical drama, so it is inspired by true events. Can you think of other biopics about famous figures? How do they compare? What do you think are some of the challenges of bringing a "real" person to the screen?
Talk about the strong language in the movie. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
How was sex portrayed? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
Movie Details
- In theaters : October 17, 2003
- On DVD or streaming : February 10, 2004
- Cast : Gwyneth Paltrow , Daniel Craig , Lucy Davenport
- Director : Christine Jeffs
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Focus Features
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Arts
- Run time : 110 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : sexuality/nudity and language.
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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