Head Girl

What’s it about?

Three Wellington flatmates try to figure out life in their twenties: Flo wants to be a poet, Dee wants to have a good time, and Sadie wants to be perfect. But they seem to be getting in each other's way. 

The facts 

• Directed by Robyn Grace (Sweet Tooth)
• Starring Nī Dekkers-Reihana, Liv Parker, Tatum Warren-Ngata, and Michelle Langstone
• English language 
• Runtime: Six episodes, between 23 and 27 minutes each
• Based on the poetry book by Freya Daly Sadgrove

Why did it get this rating? 

This series was self-rated by Neon. You can find out more about self-rating by streaming providers here.

Suicide and mental health themes

The show depicts an unnamed mental health condition that manifests in mania, depression, anxiety, hospitalisation, medication, suicide ideation, and a suicide attempt. We are shown a character start to take a number of prescription pills with the intention of suiciding, though the scene ends before their effect is shown. It is shown in a raw and realistic way, while still being sensitive. Some viewers may find it difficult to watch.

A character is shown self-harming by picking at their toes, causing painful, bloody wounds.

Sex scenes and nudity

Breasts are shown in sex scenes and in non-sexual contexts.

We see fully undressed male characters in sexual contexts, though no actual genitals are shown.

There are a number of a sex scenes with vocalisations. There is reference to masturbation and various sex positions.

Drug use

Characters mention needing pills to fall asleep. Characters are shown misusing prescription drugs, including attempting to overdose on them.

Offensive language

Offensive language is used relatively frequently, including "f*ck", "sh*t", "c*nt", and "b*tch".

Helplines

The suicide themes and mental health struggles could be upsetting for some viewers, especially for those who have gone through similar experiences. If you are struggling with what you have seen on-screen, please reach out for help. If you or someone you know needs to talk:

• 1737
• Safe to talk
• Lifeline
• Youthline

Further information 

• Why are ratings and content warnings important for me and my whānau?
• New NZ series Head Girl veers between hilarity and dread – The Conversation