Parents' Guide to Pose

Parents need to know that Pose is a drama set in 1980s and early '90s New York that focuses on ballroom culture established by queer and trans people of color. Expect flirting, dating, kissing, and sex scenes that include nudity (from behind and the side—no genitals are shown). The threat of violence is pervasive, and there are emotional scenes in which parents beat teenagers and physically throw them out of their homes. A trans woman is killed (off screen) by a client within a sex work environment, and her bloodied body is seen. A man dies of an overdose, vomit is seen on his body, and his corpse is hidden in a suitcase. Characters are diagnosed as HIV-positive, get sick, and die from AIDS-related illnesses. Dead bodies and funerals are shown, with lots of sad scenes of grief, and there are references to childhood sexual abuse and domestic violence. Language includes frequent use of words like "s--t," "f--k," "bitch," "ass," "hell," and exclamations of "God" and "Jesus." Language such as "queen," "sissy," "f--got," and "crossdresser" are used, sometimes as terms of endearment and sometimes as insults. Characters drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes, and take drugs, including cocaine, on screen. Central characters develop alcohol and cocaine reliances. While ballroom culture sees characters judge and often put down others, even those with the meanest comebacks show empathy and loyalty to others in their community in times of crisis. Characters are also incredibly courageous and resilient.