Is Lawless appropriate for children?

"Lawless" is a violent 1931 bootlegging crime drama with strong language and brutal fight scenes that earn its R rating. It contains moderate sexual content and disturbing imagery unsuitable for children. The gritty storyline and mature themes make this appropriate only for older teens and adults who can handle intense violence.

What age is Lawless suitable for?

Our verdict for Lawless is: Not recommended. See the age grid on this page for specific recommendations by age group.

Is Lawless safe for children? | ScreenWise Parent Guide

Content breakdown

🔫

Violence

Strong

🗣️

Language / Profanity

Strong

🔞

Sexual Content

Moderate

👻

Horror / Scary

Moderate

About this movie

Type

Movie

Released

2012

Rating

Genre

Crime, Drama, Western

Synopsis

In 1931, the Bondurant brothers of Franklin County, Virginia, run a multipurpose backwoods establishment that hides their true business — bootlegging. Middle brother Forrest is the brain of the operation; older Howard is the brawn, and younger Jack, the lookout. Though the local police have taken bribes and left the brothers alone, a violent war erupts when a sadistic lawman from Chicago arrives and tries to shut down the Bondurants operation.

Cast

Shia LaBeouf

Jack Bondurant

Tom Hardy

Forrest Bondurant

Gary Oldman

Floyd Banner

Guy Pearce

Charlie Rakes

Full cast on IMDb ›

Age suitability

Under 6

Not yet

Ages 6–8

Not recommended

Ages 9–12

Not recommended

Ages 13+

Not recommended

Where to watch

🎬 Find on Amazon

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Parents also checked

The Shawshank Redemption

The Wolf of Wall Street

Not recommended

Ratings based on MPAA/TV classification and TMDB metadata. Updated March 2026.
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