A Silent Voice: The Movie

A Silent Voice: The Movie

Movie • 2016

Sometimes the answer is as simple as learning to listen.

Shouya Ishida starts bullying the new girl in class, Shouko Nishimiya, because she is deaf. But as the teasing continues, the rest of the class starts to turn on Shouya for his lack of compassion. When they leave elementary school, Shouko and Shouya do not speak to each other again... until an older, wiser Shouya, tormented by his past behaviour, decides he must see Shouko once more. He wants to atone for his sins, but is it already too late...?

Animation
Drama
Romance
129 minutes
Released

Bara says...

Ages 13+, but every child is different

The emotional weight of the subject matter—specifically bullying, social isolation, and self-harm ideation—requires a level of maturity that younger audiences may not possess. It addresses complex themes of responsibility and psychological pain that necessitate guidance.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

1/5

There is very mild romantic tension and some innocent blushing between characters as they navigate their growing relationships. No sexual or suggestive content is present.

Violence & Gore

2/5

The film depicts instances of childhood bullying, including physical shoving and hair-pulling. While some scuffles occur, the violence is not gory and is used primarily to highlight the emotional impact of the characters' actions.

Profanity

2/5

There is infrequent use of mild language, such as 'cr*p' and 'b*stard', usually used in the context of childhood arguments or teen frustration. The occurrences are rare and not pervasive throughout the dialogue.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

1/5

Alcohol is occasionally seen in social settings involving adult characters, but it is not a focus of the story. There is no significant substance abuse depicted.

Frightening Scenes

3/5

The film deals with heavy, mature themes including severe social isolation, depression, and a suicide attempt. These scenes are emotionally intense and may be distressing or overwhelming for younger viewers.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This story helps you understand why being kind to others really matters and how even after making big mistakes, you have the power to change and make things right.

Content Warnings

Bullying
Emotional abuse
Suicidal ideation

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The film explores heavy interpersonal conflicts, including childhood bullying and emotional distress. It is dialogue-driven, slower-paced, and focuses on character interiority rather than action.

What Kids Can Learn

Viewers develop perspective-taking abilities and learn to recognize the emotional consequences of exclusionary social dynamics.

Key Topics Discussed

Bullying
Communication
Mental health
Forgiveness

Why Parents Might Like It

It offers an honest, emotionally sophisticated look at adolescence that encourages meaningful post-viewing conversations about empathy and social responsibility.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

5/5

Emphasizes the necessity of empathy, the value of second chances, and the profound importance of taking accountability. It promotes self-reflection over blame and highlights the healing power of forgiveness.

Positive Role Models

4/5

Characters demonstrate significant growth, evolving from hurtful behaviors toward genuine introspection. Shoujo displays admirable persistence, vulnerability, and a dedication to rectifying past mistakes.

Diverse Representations

5/5

Authentically depicts the deaf experience, highlighting the daily challenges and communication barriers. It provides deep agency to characters with disabilities, focusing on their internal lives rather than defining them through their disability alone.

Educational Value

5/5

Provides excellent opportunities to discuss social-emotional awareness, non-verbal communication, and the long-term impact of bystander behavior.

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