Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Monster

film

Monster

2023

After an outburst at school involving her son, a concerned single mother demands answers, triggering a sequence of deepening suspicion and turmoil.

Ages 13+Source checked

Why this age? PG-13 themes include bullying, emotional distress, prejudice, family conflict, and tragic developments. The film is complex and slow-paced, requiring maturity to follow its shifting perspectives. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age13+

Strongest cautions

  • LGBTQIA characters3/5
  • Death of a character2/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5

Strongest positives

  • Positive messages4/5
  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

The mystery revolves around past incidents and themes of loss; some discussion of suicide.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild; slight focus on injuries related to physical bullying.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Includes some instances of verbal bullying and harsh words exchanged at school.

LGBTQIA characters3/5
Why this rating?

A central childhood relationship has same-sex romantic implications, treated as an important part of identity and connection.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Some minor cultural references.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Centers on the innocent, deep emotional bond between two young boys.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Tense, upsetting situations involving children, isolation, accusations, and possible danger may be frightening emotionally.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Minimal depiction of social drinking by adults.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Includes school-related conflicts, scuffles, and bullying incidents.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Characters show emotional courage by confronting shame, prejudice, fear, and adult expectations, though choices can be risky.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Imagination, secret spaces, friendship, and children's distinctive ways of understanding the world are important to its emotional storytelling.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Authentic portrayal of Japanese cultural and social dynamics regarding youth identity.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Offers insight into modern Japanese schooling and the importance of child perspective.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Compassion and loyalty between children are central, contrasted with cruelty, misunderstanding, and institutional failures.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strongly explores empathy, prejudice, bullying, adult assumptions, accountability, and the harm caused by judging without listening.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Some adults respond poorly, but the film encourages reflection, listening, care, and taking children's experiences seriously.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What message do you think the story most wants you to remember?
  2. How are identity and relationships presented, and how do they shape the characters’ experiences?
  3. Which choice in Monster would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Monster, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to watch or buy

Buy or rent on AmazonFind on JustWatch

As an Amazon Associate, Dickens & Rumi may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating