Is The Outsiders appropriate for children?

# The Outsiders - Parental Guide This 1960s drama depicts gang violence and class conflict between rival groups, featuring several intense fight scenes and a fatal stabbing. While there's no foul language, sexual content, or gore, the strong violence and themes of death make it better suited for mature children ages 13+. Consider watching first to determine if your child can handle the serious subject matter.

What age is The Outsiders suitable for?

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

Is The Outsiders safe for children? | ScreenWise Parent Guide

Content breakdown

🔫

Violence

Strong

🗣️

Language / Profanity

None

🔞

Sexual Content

None

👻

Horror / Scary

None

About this movie

Type

Movie

Released

1983

Rating

Genre

Crime, Drama

Synopsis

In 1960s Tulsa, class divisions ignite a violent rivalry between the working-class Greasers and the privileged Socs. When a deadly encounter forces two Greasers, Ponyboy and Johnny, to flee, their struggle for survival and redemption exposes the fragile innocence and enduring bonds of youth on the wrong side of town.

Cast

C. Thomas Howell

Ponyboy Curtis

Matt Dillon

Dallas Winston

Ralph Macchio

Johnny Cade

Patrick Swayze

Darrel Curtis

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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