Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Why Is Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix Rated PG-13?

There’s been a lot of discussion about the Potter series growing darker, and certainly in tone and mood this film fulfills that prophecy. However, in our content categories, this one comes up with better grades than the two previous outings. Violence is the greatest concern, with a jump scene and other visions of ghost-like characters and odd-looking creatures that will certainly frighten young children. The death of a character is discussed, and we see a bloodied face in a few quick flashbacks. All other violence is through magic manipulation and people being “shocked” or knocked over by metaphysical forces. At times characters disintegrate or disappear in a “beam me up Scotty” type of effect, but nothing gruesome. Sexual content is limited to a single (highly publicized) kiss, with absolutely no other activity seen before, during or after. Language includes one mild expletive and another word that is somewhat more objectionable in North America than Britain. Parents sensitive to depictions of occult and satanic-like themes may not find this film suitable for their children.