You Parents Guide and Age Rating

First released on September 9, 2018, You is a psychological thriller series that quickly gained popularity for its gripping storyline and intense performances.

Created by Greg Berlanti and Sera Gamble, the series stars Penn Badgley as Joe Goldberg, a charming yet dangerous protagonist whose obsession with love leads to dark and twisted events. Based on Caroline Kepnes’ novel, the series has four seasons available on Netflix, with themes that explore love, obsession, and morality in unsettling ways.

• Creators: Greg Berlanti and Sera Gamble
• Writers: Caroline Kepnes (novel), Sera Gamble, and others
• Director(s): Various, including Silver Tree and Lee Toland Krieger
• Stars: Penn Badgley, Victoria Pedretti, Elizabeth Lail, Tati Gabrielle, and others
• Release Date: September 9, 2018
• Genre: Psychological Thriller, Drama
• Distributor: Netflix

The show’s unique perspective, narrated through Joe’s inner thoughts, keeps viewers hooked as they navigate his dangerous path in search of “true love.”

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Netflix’s You Age Rating

You is rated TV-MA, meaning it is intended for mature audiences. Below is a detailed guide for parents to understand the series’ content and its suitability for viewers:

Parents Guide: What Parents Should Know

Sex & Nudity

• Moderate content throughout the series.
• Several intimate scenes include suggestive imagery and occasional nudity.
• Some characters wear revealing outfits, and relationships are explored with varying intensity.
• Season 3 and 4 include more frequent and explicit moments compared to earlier seasons.

Profanity

• Strong language is common.
• Frequent use of words like “f***,” “s***,” and other expletives.
• The language intensity increases as the seasons progress.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

• Alcohol consumption and social drinking are shown regularly.
• Some characters use drugs like cocaine, marijuana, and prescription pills.
• Episodes occasionally depict the consequences of substance abuse.

Frightening & Intense Scenes

• The series often includes tense and emotionally charged moments.
• Themes like stalking, emotional manipulation, and toxic relationships may be unsettling for some viewers.
• Certain scenes focus on psychological suspense rather than graphic depictions.

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Parental Recommendations

Given the mature themes and content, You is best suited for older teens and adults. Parents are encouraged to:

• Preview the Series: Watch an episode to gauge the tone and intensity.
• Discuss the Themes: Use the show as an opportunity to talk about boundaries, relationships, and the consequences of harmful behavior.
• Monitor Screen Time: The intense nature of the show may require breaks between episodes.

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Conclusion

You is a thought-provoking and suspenseful series that keeps viewers intrigued with its psychological depth and unpredictable narrative. However, due to its mature themes, it is recommended for viewers aged 17 and above. Parents should carefully consider the content before allowing younger teens to watch.

Whether you’re drawn to the thrilling storyline or the complex character study of Joe Goldberg, You offers a chilling look at the darker side of obsession and love.

FAQs

Q: What is the main storyline of You?
A: The series follows Joe Goldberg, a charming but obsessive man who goes to extreme lengths, including stalking and manipulation, to win the affection of the women he becomes infatuated with. It explores his dark psyche and the consequences of his actions.

Q: Why is You rated TV-MA?
A: You is rated TV-MA due to its mature content, including sexual scenes, strong language, depictions of drug and alcohol use, and dark themes like obsession and toxic relationships.

Q: Is You based on a book?
A: Yes, You is based on Caroline Kepnes’ novel of the same name. The first season closely follows the book, while later seasons expand the storyline with original content.

Q: Who are the main actors in You?
A: Penn Badgley stars as Joe Goldberg. Other notable actors include Elizabeth Lail (Season 1), Victoria Pedretti (Seasons 2-3), and Tati Gabrielle (Season 4), with new cast members introduced in each season.