Updated: October 26, 2024
Overview of Mature Themes
Overall Rating: ⭐ 2.5 / 5 (Content Focus Adjustment)
Recommended Age: 17+ (Considering Mature Sexual Content)
Content Warning: This review contains discussions about sensitive topics including graphic sex scenes, sexual assault, and suicide, which may be disturbing to some readers.
When 13 Reasons Why premiered in 2017, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon, sparking conversations among teenagers and parents alike. The series centers around Hannah Baker, a high school student who dies by suicide, leaving behind 13 cassette tapes detailing the events and individuals she believes contributed to her decision. While the show aimed to bring awareness to teen mental health and struggles, its graphic depictions, particularly the sex scenes and portrayal of sexual assault, have raised significant concerns, especially for parents.
In recent years, discussions around mental health have become more prevalent and destigmatized, which is a positive shift. However, the line between raising awareness and potentially glamorizing sensitive issues can be thin. 13 Reasons Why has been at the center of this debate, with many mental health professionals cautioning against young audiences, particularly those vulnerable to suicidal thoughts, from watching the show.
Parents need comprehensive information to make informed decisions about whether 13 Reasons Why is appropriate for their teenagers. This review delves into the mature content, with a specific focus on the sex scenes within the first season, to equip parents with the knowledge to navigate this complex and impactful series. It’s important to note that while this review primarily addresses season one, the subsequent seasons continue to explore intense and potentially triggering themes.
Mature Sexual Content and Sex Scenes ❗️
Rating: 4/5 (High Impact Sexual Content)
The narrative of 13 Reasons Why unfolds through Hannah Baker’s tapes, which are listened to by her friend Clay Jensen. Hannah recounts a series of emotionally and physically damaging experiences at Liberty High School. Beyond typical high school social dynamics, Hannah faces severe bullying and, critically, becomes a victim of sexual assault at a party. These events accumulate, contributing to her despair and ultimately, her suicide.
While suicide and bullying are central themes, the portrayal of sex and sexual assault is particularly noteworthy for parents. The series doesn’t shy away from depicting teenage sexuality, including scenes of characters kissing, discussing sex, and implying sexual activity. However, 13 Reasons Why goes further by including explicit sex scenes involving teenagers. Although these scenes avoid full nudity, they are far from suggestive; they are visually descriptive and intended to be impactful.
The sexual assault scene involving Hannah is particularly graphic and disturbing. It includes visible thrusting motions and close-ups on Hannah’s face displaying intense distress. The show’s intent is clear: to portray the brutal reality and trauma of sexual assault without sanitization. For viewers, especially young and impressionable ones, these scenes can be deeply unsettling and potentially triggering.
Furthermore, the show addresses non-consensual sexual acts beyond assault. An incident of “upskirting,” where a student takes a photograph under Hannah’s skirt without her consent, is depicted and has significant repercussions for Hannah, as the photo is circulated throughout the school, leading to further harassment and humiliation.
For parents considering allowing their teenagers to watch 13 Reasons Why, particularly season one, understanding the nature and intensity of these sex scenes is crucial. Discussions about consent, respect for personal boundaries, and the serious ramifications of sexual assault and harassment are essential if teens do watch the show.
Language
Profanity is present in 13 Reasons Why, including frequent use of strong language like the F-word. However, the level of swearing is consistent with many contemporary teen dramas and may not be excessive compared to other shows in the genre.
Violence Beyond Sex Scenes
Initially, the suicide scene in 13 Reasons Why was explicitly shown, depicting Hannah slitting her wrists in a bathtub in graphic detail. Due to controversy and concerns from suicide prevention experts, Netflix made the decision to edit out this explicit scene two years after the initial release.
Despite this edit, violence remains a significant element throughout the series. As mentioned, the sexual assault scene is visually and emotionally violent. Additionally, season two contains storylines involving planned school shootings as a consequence of severe bullying, adding another layer of violent and disturbing content.
Positive Aspects and Discussion Points 💫
Rating: 3/5 (For Sparking Conversation)
13 Reasons Why attempts to resonate with the experiences of modern teenagers. The anxieties, depression, and pressures faced by the characters reflect real challenges many teens encounter. For some viewers, the show may feel relatable, while for others, it can offer insight into the struggles faced by their peers. Television, as a powerful storytelling medium, can initiate crucial dialogues about important issues like teen mental health. Statistics highlight the urgency of this conversation; reports indicate a significant percentage of teenagers have experienced or engaged in communications related to suicidal thoughts.
However, as a teen drama, 13 Reasons Why often leans into sensationalism and exaggeration for dramatic effect. While aiming for realism, the show can cross into unrealistic territory. A valuable takeaway for teen viewers could be recognizing what not to do when facing overwhelming situations: isolating oneself and resorting to drastic measures. Instead, the show, in its later iterations and accompanying materials, encourages viewers to seek help from trusted adults and mental health professionals.
Each episode of 13 Reasons Why now begins with a message from the cast urging viewers to seek help if needed and directing them to resources at 13reasonswhy.info. This addition underscores the show’s attempt to provide a responsible message alongside its dramatic content.
Parental Guidance: Should Your Teen Watch?
Extreme caution is strongly advised before allowing teenagers to watch 13 Reasons Why. If parents decide to permit viewing, it is recommended for older teenagers, aged 17 and up, and only when coupled with open, ongoing conversations about the complex and sensitive issues presented. Discussing the show’s themes, particularly the sex scenes, sexual assault, bullying, and suicide, in a constructive and supportive environment is crucial. Such discussions can be more beneficial than avoidance, provided they are handled with sensitivity and aimed at fostering understanding and healthy coping mechanisms.
