The Forgiven

Violence, sexual references and offensive language Rated on: 09 June 2022

The Forgiven

What’s it about?

Based on the novel by Lawrence Osborne, The Forgiven is a drama film that follows the fallout of a hit-and-run accident in the Atlas Mountain of Morocco. It stars Ralph Fiennes, Jessica Chastain and Matt Smith.

The facts

  • Director: John Michael McDonagh
  • English language
  • Runtime: 117 minutes

Why did it get this rating?

The film contains low-level violence, sexual material and occasional offensive language. The content is unlikely to harm younger viewers but the subject matter is more suitable for adults.

Sex

The film features a few sexual references, one scene of implied sexual activity, and brief buttock nudity.

Violence

A hit-and-run accident and a shooting are briefly shown, with little detail. A brief clip of bloody violence on a television screen is shown.

Offensive language

Offensive language is used casually on occasion. One character makes derogatory racial remarks, but his attitude changes for the better as the film progresses.

Further information

The Forgiven is set to screen as part of the 2022 Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival.

It also screened at the 2022 Tribeca Film Festival.

Recent featured decisions

25 March 2026

Violence, offensive language, sexual material and content that may disturb

In the final stages of planning their wedding, a couple’s seemingly perfect lives are thrown into turmoil when one partner reveals a shocking secret.

Read more

30 March 2026

Pursuit of Jade

Pursuit of Jade, Season 1

Violence and suicide

A young woman marries a disgraced nobleman to survive. They grow to love each other – but their love is challenged at every turn by political schemes and insidious secrets. They must fight, even go to war, to stay together.

Read more