Barbie age rating: Is the movie appropriate for kids?

Whether you grew up playing with Barbie dolls or you have kids who currently enjoy the toy, that means there’s so many of us who are excited for the new Barbie movie! The film makes its theatrical debut on Friday, July 21, 2023. Is it ok for kids to watch?

The comedy stars Margot Robbie as the titular character, Ryan Gosling as Ken, Will Ferrell as the CEO of a toy company, Emma Mackey, Connor Swindells, Nicola Coughlan, Emerald Fennell,
Kate McKinnon, Michael Cera, Simu Liu, America Ferrera, Ncuti Gatwa, Issa Rae, and more. The story of course focuses on our favorite doll, and how it seems like she’s ready to leave Barbie Land behind and explore the Real World. What kinds of adventures will she find herself on?

While the main demographic for the dolls is targeted towards those between three and 12 years old, is that also the case for the new movie? There’s been many animated films, but this is the first live-action and may be different. We’ve got the answer for you below!

Barbie movie age rating and parents guide

Barbie is rated PG-13, which means parental guidance for children under 13. A film is given this rating when there is content that might not be suitable for those under the age of 13 years old. In the case of the movie, Barbie is rated PG-13 because for suggestive references and brief language, according to the Motion Picture Association.

If your kids are excited about the new production and you’re thinking of sending them to the theater to check it out, you’ll definitely want a parent present. The comedy may be a bit mature for younger audiences. So, you’ll just want to be mindful of that.

Why is the Barbie movie rated PG-13?

We won’t get into spoilers here, but having seen the movie we can shed some light on why Barbie is rated PG-13. The movie is pretty tame throughout and sends a very positive message of women empowerment and humanity for women, girls, and people in general. We’d consider it appropriate for adults, teens, preteens, and even children depending on their maturity level. The movie features sexual innuendos throughout, however depending on the child’s age, the jokes might just go over their heads. No sexual activity is explicitly shown.

At one point, a character is groped and they proceed to punch the perpetrator. A car is seen flipping upside down, but it’s used for comedic effect and no one is injured. As for profanity, one character uses the F-word but is bleeped out, and the words “b***h,” “damn,” “vagina,” and “penis” are used.

All in all, the tone of Barbie is very lighthearted and sweet, fit for families of almost all ages.

Barbie begins playing Friday, July 21, 2023 in theaters.