Is Twelve Monkeys appropriate for children?

# Twelve Monkeys - Parent Guide This R-rated sci-fi thriller features a convict sent back in time to stop a deadly virus, with strong violence and language throughout. The dark, complex plot involves disturbing imagery and intense scenes that aren't suitable for children under 16-17. It's a serious, psychologically demanding film best reserved for mature teens and adults.

What age is Twelve Monkeys suitable for?

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

Is Twelve Monkeys 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

1995

Rating

Genre

Science Fiction, Thriller, Mystery

Synopsis

In the year 2035, convict James Cole reluctantly volunteers to be sent back in time to discover the origin of a deadly virus that wiped out nearly all of the earth's population and forced the survivors into underground communities. But when Cole is mistakenly sent to 1990 instead of 1996, he's arrested and locked up in a mental hospital. There he meets psychiatrist Dr. Kathryn Railly and the son of a famous virus expert who may hold the key to the Army of the 12 Monkeys; thought to be responsible for unleashing the killer disease.

Cast

Bruce Willis

James Cole

Madeleine Stowe

Dr. Kathryn Railly

Brad Pitt

Jeffrey Goines

Christopher Plummer

Dr. Goines

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

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