A Christmas Carol

NZ release: 05 November 2009

Content that may disturb Rated on: 05 November 2009

A christmas carol

What’s it about?

An old miserable man is visited by three Christmas spirits on Christmas Eve. Their visit leads him on a journey of self-redemption to change his miserable ways.

The facts

  • Directed by Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump, The Polar Express)
  • English language
  • Runtime: 96 minutes
  • Starring voice acting by Jim Carrey, Gary Oldman and Colin Firth
  • Based on Charles Dickens’ 1843 novel, A Christmas Carol

Why did it get this rating?

This film was cross-rated by the Film and Video Labelling Body. You can find out more about cross-rating here.

Frightening imagery

Mild comedic violence. There are fast intense scenes where characters are flying in the sky and dangerously traveling on buildings. In one scene, a character is sliding down a roof and is hit by a series of large icicles. Very low-level and mainly humorous. But these scenes can be uneasy for younger viewers.

The ghosts often have frightening appearances. For example, one appears ghoulish and often wail loudly when not speaking in a creepy voice. In one scene, one of the ghost’s jaws becomes unhinged, it dangles while they are talking.

Further information

Recent featured decisions

02 December 2025

Domestic violence, offensive language, sexual violence themes

This docuseries digs into the long-running allegations tied to Sean “Diddy” Combs and the rise of his Bad Boy empire, covering decades of fame, power, and controversy.

Read more

30 December 2025

Offensive language, sex scenes, sexual references, drug use

Two rival hockey stars at the peak of their careers suddenly catch feelings for each other, throwing a massive curveball into their professional lives and the expectations of the sport.

Read more