Common Sense Media Review
Sexual violence, nudity in Oscar-winning drama.
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The Piano
What's the Story?
THE PIANO tells the 19th century-set story of a Scottish woman, Ada (Holly Hunter), and her daughter, Flora (Anna Paquin), as they move to New Zealand to fulfill the obligations of an arranged marriage. Ada's husband, Alisdair (Sam Neill), is awkward and stilted. He doesn't appreciate her primal connection with the beloved piano she's brought from Scotland. This leaves her open to the affection of a neighbor, George Baines (Harvey Keitel), who does understand the connection and uses the piano as a way to get close to Ada.
Is It Any Good?
Writer/director Jane Campion's poetic film is rich with metaphor, recurring visual motifs, and a masterful score by Michael Nyman. But watching The Piano for its story alone might leave many viewers wanting. The pace is slow, as time is taken to focus on the lush scenery of the New Zealand forest and the elaborate clothing and decorations marking the time period and its conservatism.
For those with the patience, this is a rewarding film filled with great performances. In fact, Hunter won the Best Actress Oscar for playing Ada, while Paquin won the Best Supporting Actress award for her role as Ada's spirited daughter.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about The Piano's portrayal of a nonspeaking lead, Ada. How does Ada communicate with others? What are some ways that you communicate or express yourself without speaking?
How are Māori characters and culture portrayed? Are any of their characters developed? Is the culture portrayed respectfully? Why is it important to ask questions like this about underrepresented groups?
How are romantic relationships portrayed in the film? How do they overlap with coercion and violence? How do you feel about Ada's relationship with George?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 12, 1993
- On DVD or streaming : January 20, 1998
- Cast : Harvey Keitel , Holly Hunter , Sam Neill
- Director : Jane Campion
- Studio : Artisan Entertainment
- Genre : Drama
- Run time : 121 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : moments of extremely graphic sexuality
- Awards : Academy Award - Best Picture Nominee , Academy Award - Other Category Winner , Academy Award - Other Category Nominee , BAFTA - BAFTA Winner , BAFTA - BAFTA Nominee , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Winner , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Nominee
- Last updated : September 16, 2026
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