The Red Turtle

NZ release: 18 May 2016

Parental guidance recommended for younger viewers Rated on: 24 June 2016

The Red Turtle

What’s it about?

A man is shipwrecked on a deserted island and encounters a big red turtle, who changes his life.

The facts 

  • Directed by Michael Dudok de Wit
  • No dialogue
  • Runtime: 80 minutes
  • Animated film by Studio Ghibli (Spirited Away, My Neighbour Totoro, Ponyo)
  • Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature Film of the Year

Why did it get this rating? 

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

Low level violence

While frustrated, a man hits a turtle with a stick and flips it over, causing its death. This scene may be upsetting for younger viewers. 

A woman is cut in the leg, with some blood visible on her leg and in the sand afterwards.

One man cuts a dead seal’s skin, with some blood shown.

Frightening scenes

A huge storm and tsunami destroy a family’s shelter, flooding an island, which may frighten some viewers. 

A magical woman emerges from a dead animal, which some may find unsettling.

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 

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