Lead: Nuremberg, James Vanderbilt’s sweeping historical drama about the psychiatric examinations and trials of top Nazi leaders, is earning attention for powerful performances and for how directly it confronts the horrors of the Holocaust.
The film does not shy away from archival images and scenes that many viewers will find upsetting; for that reason, the Motion Picture Association assigned a PG-13 rating with strong content warnings — a choice that makes the title suitable for older teens and adults but calls for parental discretion and preparation for younger viewers.
What the PG-13 rating means here
PG-13 signals that parents should be aware: Nuremberg is rated PG-13 for violent content involving the Holocaust, strong disturbing images, suicide, some language, smoking and brief drug content.
Parents’ Guide — what you will actually see
Below is a plain, non-sensational description so you can decide whether to watch, and whether to let a teenager watch it.
- Historical trial scenes and interrogations. Much of the film follows psychiatrist Dr. Douglas Kelley as he assesses Nazi leaders’ fitness for trial, notably Hermann Göring. These scenes involve psychological testing, intense conversations, and portrayals of manipulation and denial. They are dramatic but not graphically violent.
- Archival footage and strong disturbing images. The movie incorporates real footage and stark imagery of concentration camps and their aftermath. These images are historically authentic and are used to convey the scale and reality of the crimes — they are not stylized or frivolous and can be deeply upsetting. This is the principal driver of the “strong disturbing images” warning.
- Discussion of atrocities and consequences. Characters speak openly about mass murder, genocide, and the logistics of the Nazi regime. There are explicit descriptions and references to violence carried out in the Holocaust, though the film doesn’t linger on gore for spectacle. The impact is psychological and emotional.
- Suicide and self-harm references. The plot alludes to and, in some contexts, dramatizes the suicides of historical figures involved in the story; the film also portrays the psychiatrist’s personal demons and eventual suicide. These elements are treated seriously and can be triggering.
- Language, smoking, brief drug content. Occasional strong language appears in testimony and confrontations. Smoking appears in multiple scenes (a historical period detail). There are brief references or depictions of drug use. These are minor relative to the Holocaust material but part of the content advisory.
Who this film is appropriate for — guidance by age group
- Adults (18+): Appropriate. The film is clearly aimed at adult viewers prepared for heavy historical material and ethical questions. Important and relevant for those who want to understand the psychological, legal, and moral dimensions of the Nuremberg trials.
- Older teens (15–17): Probably appropriate if they are emotionally mature, have some historical background on WWII and the Holocaust, and will watch with a parent or guardian who can debrief. Expect to need conversation afterward: the film raises questions about human nature, guilt, and complicity that benefit from discussion. The PG-13 rating reflects that many viewers in this group could handle the film, but parental judgment is advised.
- Younger teens and children (under 15): Not recommended. The archival images and explicit subject matter of genocide, murder, and suicide are likely to be traumatic or confusing. For younger viewers, consider age-appropriate documentaries or classroom materials that present the Holocaust with careful scaffolding.
How to decide — questions for parents to ask before watching
- Has the teen learned about World War II and the Holocaust in school? If not, the historical context may be lost or more frightening.
- Does the teen get distressed by real images of suffering? The film uses archival footage that can be visceral.
- Are you willing to watch together and talk afterward? Parental presence helps unpack moral complexity and correct misunderstandings.
- Are there household sensitivities (suicide, trauma history)? If so, proceed cautiously — this film contains triggering material.
A brief note on why the subject matter matters
Critics note that Nuremberg matters because it documents how the legal system, psychology, and public record confronted unprecedented crimes — and how the professionals involved wrestled with the idea that ordinary-looking men could commit monstrous acts. Reviewers also point to the film’s contemporary resonance: a reminder about how fragile democratic norms can be and why vigilance matters. The movie aims to prompt reflection rather than to titillate.
Editor’s Verdict
Nuremberg is a historically important and artistically serious film that is best seen by adults and older teens who are prepared for direct depictions and discussions of Holocaust atrocities.
The PG-13 rating accurately flags the film’s most challenging elements — especially the use of archival images and the film’s treatment of suicide and atrocity. Parents who consider taking older teens should prepare to watch together and to follow up with calm, fact-based conversation. For younger viewers, wait and choose materials specifically designed for their age.
Sources and further reading
Key sources used for this guidance and for factual details about the film: AP News review and film notes; The Washington Post review; IMDb parental guide; Rotten Tomatoes content notes; Wikipedia film entry; Metacritic summary. These provide the film’s official rating text, release information, runtime, and descriptions of archival material used in the movie