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

08 January 2026

Violence, sex scenes, offensive language, nudity & wound detail

In 1950’s New York, shoe salesman Marty Mauser chases his dream to become a table tennis champion regardless of the cost to those around him.  

Read more

10 January 2026

Content that may disturb, drug references, offensive language, violence, nudity

The second season of a drama series that follows the daily lives of healthcare professionals in a Pittsburgh hospital. They juggle personal crises, workplace politics, and the emotional toll of treating critically ill patients, revealing the resilience required in their noble calling.

Read more