Joker 2 age rating explained: Is the sequel suitable for kids?

Joker 2 might be a comic book movie, but that doesn’t mean the Clown Prince of Crime’s antics are suitable for younger audiences, as proven by the new movie’s age rating.

As time has gone on, superheroes and supervillains have gone from cartoonish and low-stakes fare to figures in gritty and realistic crime dramas. With every iteration of the Joker, he becomes more violent and scheming, meaning his new movies might not be appropriate for all.

Starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, Joker: Folie à Deux introduces Harley Quinn into this new-world Gotham. As Arthur Fleck’s trial commences, those on the streets of Gotham begin to rebel with ideals from their new hero.

But Joker 2 is a musical, right? Surely it can’t be that bad? Here’s everything you need to know about the age rating of the drama, including parental guidance and what to expect.

What is the Joker 2 age rating?

Joker 2 is rated R in the US by the MPAA, for “strong violence, language throughout, some sexuality, and brief full nudity.”

Based on MPAA guidance for the R rating, parents are advised to look into the film before taking young children. Basically, if you’re under 17, you won’t be able to get in without a parent or a guardian.

In the UK, Joker 2 has been given a 15 rating by the BBFC, citing “strong violence, language, and brief sex.” Nobody younger than 15 years old can watch the movie in a cinema.

Joker 2 won’t be suitable for young children

Of course, it’s down to the discretion of parents as to whether they let children watch Joker or the sequel, but generally speaking, Joker 2 won’t be appropriate for young children.

As already established in the original movie, Joker takes place in an extremely violent version of Gotham. Overall, the tone of the film is bleak and highlights the grim environment Arthur spends most of his time in. Frequently, characters appear distressed or disturbed when recounting their past and traumatic events, particularly during the courtroom scenes.

Arthur Fleck is portrayed as a threatening person who enacts graphic murders, and Joker 2 features brutal scenes of violence. However, many of these moments take place within the musical sequences, which are portrayed as being part of a fantasy world and provide a little levity.

Warner Bros. Pictures

There’s one sex scene featured in the movie, which does go on for a little while and is the focus of the scene in question.

As a leading character, Arthur is presented as being torn and confused by his more violent alter ego. Scenes of him being worshiped or praised for his Joker persona are brief, and this isn’t presented as a correct stance. The most shocking moment in the film comes from a particularly realistic stabbing scene, in which a lot of blood is shown. However, this act isn’t praised, and it isn’t committed by the main character.

With that in mind, it’s best for parents to check the film out beforehand, or avoid showing it to younger kids altogether.

If you’re looking for a more family-friendly Batman-related watch, there’s always The Lego Batman movie or Batman: The Animated Series!

For more, check out our guides to the 10 best movies like Joker to watch before the sequel. You can also find out what other new movies are coming out this month, and find out what other upcoming DC movies are coming out.