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.  

• 1737
• Safe to talk
• Lifeline
• Youthline

Further information 

• Why are ratings and content warnings important for me and my whānau?
• Brain development – how it works, why it matters