The Dark Horse
NZ release: 17 July 2017
Violence, offensive language & drug use Rated on: 03 October 2017
What’s it about?
The Dark Horse is a true-story drama about Genesis Potini, a well-known chess player living with bipolar who has faced many challenges throughout his life. He finds purpose and healing through mentoring at-risk youth while protecting his nephew from gang life.
The facts
- Directed by James Napier-Robinson
- Starring Cliff Curtis, James Napier-Robinson, James Rolleston, Wayne Hapi, Jim Marbrook
- English language
- Runtime: 124 minutes
- Based on the real-life story of Genesis Potini
- Won Best Picture, Best Screenplay, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor and Best Score at the 2014 New Zealand Film Awards
Why did it get this rating?
In-house rated: This film was classified by Te Mana Whakaatu, Classification Office. You can find out more about classification process and ratings here.
Violence
The film includes realistic and emotionally intense violence that reflects the tough circumstances the characters face. It’s not overly graphic, but it supports the serious tone and themes of the story. Examples of violence include:
- A character is punched in the face and hit with a pipe.
- A gang member carves a “V” into a character’s face as part of their initiation into the gang.
- A teenage character is shown with bruises on their face, implying they’ve been beaten.
Offensive language
There is frequent use of offensive language by both children and adults including “f**k,” “sh*t,” “pisshead” and “asshole.” The word “retard” is used in a derogatory way.
Drug use
Young characters are seen drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana on several occasions.
In one instance, a character uses a meth pipe, but this scene is not detailed.
When content stays with you:
We all have our boundaries, and it’s completely okay if something you’ve watched is weighing on your mind. If certain content lingers with you, consider having a chat with friends or whānau to debrief about what you’ve just seen. But if you’re still feeling affected, please reach out to any of the following helplines for support.
Further information
Recent featured decisions
Violence
Whilst navigating their roles as superheroes and their newfound family bond, the Fantastic Four must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer.
Graphic violence
Set in Yosemite National Park, Special Agent Kyle Turner and rookie Ranger Naya Vasquez investigate the suspicious death of a woman who was discovered after she fell from the summit of El Capitan and became tangled in the safety ropes of two climbers below. As the case unfolds, buried secrets and personal trauma come to the surface.