The Notebook

NZ release: 14 October 2004

Adult themes Rated on: 27 February 2025

the notebook

What’s it about?

The Notebook is a romantic drama about Noah and Allie, two young lovers from different backgrounds who are separated by circumstances but never stop loving each other.

The facts

  • Directed by Nick Cassavetes
  • Starring Ryan Gosling (La La Land) and Rachel McAdams (Mean Girls)
  • English language
  • Runtime: 124 minutes

Why did it get this rating?

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

Adult themes

The Notebook contains a few intimate scenes that are passionate but not overly explicit. Scenes include an emotional, rain-soaked kiss, undressing and embracing, and a lot of sex is implied, like a typical romantic drama, but nothing is shown.

The film is deeply emotional, as it explores love, loss, and memory, and has a heartbreaking yet sweet ending.

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

08 August 2025

Coarse language

22 years later, Tess and Anna Coleman discover that lightning strikes twice in this sequel to the 2003 film Freaky Friday.

Read more

06 August 2025

Bloody violence and content that may disturb

Hiranyakashipu, a powerful demon king fuelled by vengeance, declares himself a god. His young son, Prahlad, defies him by staying devoted to Vishnu. To protect Prahlad and uphold cosmic justice, Vishnu manifests as Narsimha, a fierce half‑man, half‑lion avatar, and defeats the demon king.

Read more