The Circle (2017) ⎼ A Parents Guide
The Circle, a 2017 PG-13 thriller, explores themes of privacy, technology, and surveillance, prompting important discussions for families․
This guide offers insights into content concerns, age appropriateness, and potential discussion points, helping parents navigate this thought-provoking movie․
Released on April 28, 2017, the film stars Emma Watson and Tom Hanks, and is based on Dave Eggers’ 2013 novel․ It’s crucial for parents to be aware of the film’s mature themes․
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Overview of the Movie
The Circle (2017) is a suspenseful thriller centered around Mae Holland, played by Emma Watson, a young woman who lands a dream job at a powerful tech company, simply known as “The Circle․” This company, resembling a blend of Google, Facebook, and Twitter, is on the cusp of creating a revolutionary technology that aims to connect all aspects of human life online․
As Mae ascends within the company, she becomes increasingly entangled in its ambitious and ethically questionable initiatives․ The film explores the seductive allure of transparency and the potential consequences of a world without privacy․ The narrative follows Mae’s journey as she grapples with the implications of “completing the circle” – connecting every individual’s online and offline existence․
Alongside Tom Hanks, who portrays the enigmatic CEO of The Circle, Eamon Bailey, the film delves into themes of corporate control, social manipulation, and the erosion of personal boundaries․ It’s a cautionary tale about the unchecked power of technology and its impact on society, prompting viewers to question the true cost of connectivity․ The movie presents a somewhat bleak vision of a hyper-connected future, raising concerns about surveillance and individual freedom․
Rating and Certification
The Circle (2017) received a PG-13 rating from the Motion Picture Association of America (MPA)․ This rating signifies that the film contains some material that may be inappropriate for children under 13․ Parents are strongly advised to consider the specific content details before allowing younger viewers to watch․
The PG-13 designation is primarily due to a “sexual situation,” which is brief but present․ The film also includes “brief strong language,” though it isn’t pervasive throughout the narrative․ Additionally, the rating acknowledges “some thematic elements including drug use,” which are explored, but not glorified, within the storyline․
It’s important to note that the PG-13 rating doesn’t necessarily equate to suitability for all teenagers․ Parents should be aware that the film tackles complex and mature themes related to privacy, surveillance, and corporate ethics, which may require discussion and context for younger or more sensitive viewers․ The rating serves as a guideline, and individual maturity levels should be taken into account․
Common Sense Media gives the film a rating of 4․3, suggesting it’s more appropriate for older teens and adults․
Content Concerns: Sex & Nudity
The Circle contains limited instances of sexual content, contributing to its PG-13 rating․ The primary concern revolves around a single “sexual situation” depicted in the film, which is described as brief and not explicitly graphic․ It’s a pivotal scene within the narrative, but parents should be aware of its presence and consider whether it’s appropriate for their children․
There is no nudity depicted in the film․ While the aforementioned scene carries a sexual implication, it doesn’t involve any exposure or explicit sexual acts․ The focus is more on the emotional and psychological impact of the situation rather than visual detail․
Romantic elements are present throughout the film, as the protagonist develops a connection with another character․ However, these relationships are portrayed in a relatively restrained manner, without any overtly suggestive scenes․ Parents should be mindful that the film explores themes of attraction and intimacy, which may prompt conversations with teenagers․
Overall, the sexual content in The Circle is minimal, but its presence warrants consideration based on individual family values and the maturity level of the viewer․
Content Concerns: Language
The Circle receives a PG-13 rating partly due to instances of “brief strong language․” While the film doesn’t feature pervasive profanity, stronger words are used occasionally throughout the narrative․ The language isn’t excessively harsh or vulgar, but parents should be aware of its presence, particularly if they have younger or more sensitive children․
The language used generally serves to emphasize dramatic moments or reflect the characters’ emotional states․ It’s not gratuitous or used for shock value․ The intensity of the language is relatively mild compared to other films with similar ratings․ However, some instances may include words considered inappropriate by certain families․
There is no reported use of extremely offensive or discriminatory language within the film․ The majority of the language is conversational and realistic, reflecting how people communicate in everyday life․ Parents can expect to hear some instances of mild swearing, but nothing overly explicit or disturbing․
Considering the overall context, the language in The Circle is unlikely to be a major concern for most families, but it’s important to be informed and make a judgment based on individual preferences․
Content Concerns: Drug Use
The Circle’s PG-13 rating acknowledges “some thematic elements including drug use,” however, depictions of actual drug use are minimal and largely implied․ The film doesn’t showcase graphic or explicit scenes of characters consuming drugs․ Instead, references to drug use are presented as part of the characters’ backstories or as elements within the broader societal context explored in the movie․
The thematic exploration of drug use primarily serves to highlight the company’s pervasive reach and its attempts to control all aspects of its employees’ lives, including their personal choices․ It’s presented as a potential consequence of the intense pressure and surveillance within the Circle’s environment․
There are no scenes glorifying or promoting drug use․ The film doesn’t portray drug use as a positive or desirable activity․ Parents shouldn’t anticipate witnessing detailed depictions of drug-related activities or substance abuse․ The references are subtle and serve a narrative purpose rather than being gratuitous․
While the topic is touched upon, it’s not a central focus of the film․ The thematic element is unlikely to be deeply disturbing for most viewers, but parents should be aware of its presence and consider their child’s maturity level․
Content Concerns: Violence & Gore
The Circle receives a PG-13 rating, and concerning violence and gore, the film is generally mild in its depiction of these elements․ There are no excessively graphic or bloody scenes․ The violence presented is primarily psychological and stems from the intense pressure and surveillance experienced by the characters within the Circle’s environment․
Physical altercations are infrequent and not particularly brutal․ The film focuses more on the consequences of actions and the erosion of privacy rather than showcasing explicit physical harm․ There are moments of tension and suspense, but these are largely driven by the narrative and the characters’ emotional states rather than graphic violence․
The film does explore themes of intimidation and threats, which may be unsettling for some viewers․ However, these instances are not depicted in a visually graphic manner․ Parents should be aware that the film deals with themes of power dynamics and control, which can create a sense of unease․
Overall, the level of violence and gore in The Circle is relatively low and unlikely to be deeply disturbing for most teenagers and adults․ However, sensitive viewers may find the psychological tension and themes of intimidation unsettling․
Content Concerns: Frightening/Intense Scenes
The Circle, while not a horror film, contains several scenes that may be considered frightening or intensely unsettling for some viewers․ The primary source of tension stems from the pervasive surveillance and lack of privacy depicted within the Circle’s technological ecosystem․ This constant monitoring creates a sense of unease and paranoia that permeates the narrative․
The film explores themes of control and manipulation, which can be psychologically disturbing․ Characters experience pressure to conform and participate in the Circle’s culture, leading to moments of emotional distress and vulnerability․ These scenes, while not graphically violent, can be emotionally intense․
There are moments of suspense and implied threat, particularly as the protagonist uncovers unsettling truths about the Circle’s operations․ These scenes rely on psychological tension rather than jump scares or explicit violence․ The film’s overall tone is one of mounting anxiety and dread․
Parents should be aware that the film’s themes of technology and control may be particularly unsettling for younger or more sensitive viewers․ The constant surveillance and erosion of privacy can be frightening concepts to contemplate․ The movie has one inappropriate scene, but it is quick and easily skipped․
Thematic Elements: Privacy and Surveillance
The Circle’s central thematic concern revolves around the erosion of privacy in the digital age and the implications of ubiquitous surveillance․ The film presents a world where transparency is valued above all else, and individuals are encouraged to share every aspect of their lives online․ This relentless pursuit of openness raises critical questions about the boundaries between public and private life․
The movie explores the potential consequences of a society where every action is monitored and recorded․ Characters grapple with the loss of anonymity and the pressure to conform to the Circle’s ideals․ The film suggests that constant surveillance can lead to a chilling effect on freedom of thought and expression․
Parents should be prepared to discuss these complex themes with their children․ The Circle prompts viewers to consider the trade-offs between convenience, security, and personal privacy․ It encourages critical thinking about the role of technology in shaping our lives and the importance of protecting our fundamental rights․
The film’s depiction of the Circle serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked technological power and the need for responsible innovation․ It’s a valuable starting point for conversations about digital citizenship and the ethical implications of data collection․
Thematic Elements: Technology and Society
The Circle deeply examines the complex relationship between technology and society, portraying a near-future where a powerful tech company profoundly influences nearly every facet of human life․ The film questions whether technological advancement inherently equates to societal progress, and explores the potential for technology to be used for both benevolent and manipulative purposes․
The movie highlights the allure of technological solutions to complex social problems, while simultaneously cautioning against the uncritical acceptance of these solutions․ It suggests that technology can exacerbate existing inequalities and create new forms of control․ The Circle’s relentless pursuit of innovation is presented as both a driving force for change and a potential threat to individual autonomy․
Parents can use The Circle as a springboard for discussions about the ethical responsibilities of tech companies and the importance of digital literacy․ The film encourages viewers to consider the societal impact of new technologies before they become fully integrated into our lives․
Ultimately, The Circle prompts reflection on how technology shapes our values, beliefs, and behaviors, and the need for a more thoughtful and critical approach to technological development․
Age Appropriateness ⎼ Teenagers
The Circle, rated PG-13, is generally suitable for older teenagers, but parents should exercise caution and consider their individual teen’s maturity level․ The film’s thematic complexity, dealing with privacy, surveillance, and the ethics of technology, requires a degree of critical thinking that may not be fully developed in younger teens․
The movie contains a brief sexual situation and some moderate language, which may be concerning for some families․ While not explicit, the sexual content is present and contributes to the film’s overall narrative․ The thematic elements, including implied drug use, are more significant concerns, prompting discussions about societal pressures and ethical boundaries․
Teenagers are often deeply immersed in the digital world, making the film’s exploration of technology particularly relevant․ However, parents should be prepared to discuss the film’s cautionary message about the potential downsides of unchecked technological advancement and the importance of online privacy․
Open communication and a willingness to engage in thoughtful conversation are crucial when considering whether The Circle is appropriate for your teenager․
Age Appropriateness ⎼ Younger Viewers
The Circle is definitively not recommended for younger viewers․ The PG-13 rating reflects content that is unsuitable for children, even those approaching their teenage years․ The film’s complex themes of privacy, surveillance, and the ethical implications of technology are far too mature for younger audiences to grasp fully․
Even the mild instances of strong language and the brief sexual situation are inappropriate for children․ More importantly, the underlying anxieties about data collection, loss of privacy, and the potential for manipulation are concepts that could be frightening or confusing for younger viewers․
The film lacks the lightheartedness or clear moral messaging typically found in age-appropriate content for children․ It presents a nuanced and often unsettling portrayal of a technologically advanced society, which could be disturbing for sensitive young minds․
Parents should prioritize protecting their children from exposure to these mature themes and opt for more age-appropriate entertainment options․ The film’s cautionary tale is best suited for older teenagers and adults capable of critical analysis․
Positive Messages and Lessons
Despite its unsettling premise, The Circle offers several valuable positive messages and lessons, particularly regarding technology’s impact on society․ The film encourages critical thinking about the trade-offs between convenience, connectivity, and personal privacy – a crucial discussion point in today’s digital age․
It subtly champions the importance of authenticity and resisting the pressure to present a curated, idealized version of oneself online․ Mae’s journey highlights the dangers of sacrificing individuality for the sake of social acceptance and the pursuit of online validation․
The movie also implicitly warns against unchecked corporate power and the potential for technology to be used for manipulative purposes․ It prompts viewers to question the motives behind data collection and the erosion of personal boundaries․
Furthermore, The Circle underscores the value of human connection and the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between the digital and real worlds․ It’s a cautionary tale that encourages mindful technology use and a commitment to protecting fundamental freedoms․
Potential Discussion Points for Families
The Circle provides a rich foundation for meaningful family discussions about technology, privacy, and societal values․ Begin by asking children how comfortable they are sharing personal information online and what they believe are appropriate boundaries․
Explore the concept of surveillance and its potential impact on freedom and individuality․ Discuss the film’s depiction of a world where transparency is prioritized above all else, and whether such a society is desirable or dangerous․
Examine the pressures of social media and the tendency to present curated versions of reality․ Encourage children to reflect on their own online behavior and the importance of authenticity․
Delve into the ethical responsibilities of technology companies and the potential for misuse of data․ Discuss the importance of critical thinking and questioning the motives behind technological advancements․
Finally, consider the film’s message about finding a healthy balance between the digital and real worlds, and the value of genuine human connection․
Comparison to the Source Material (Dave Eggers’ Novel)
Dave Eggers’ 2013 novel, The Circle, offers a more nuanced and deeply unsettling exploration of its themes than the 2017 film adaptation․ While the movie captures the basic premise – a young woman’s immersion into a powerful tech company – it significantly streamlines the narrative and softens some of the novel’s sharper critiques․
The book delves far more extensively into the insidious nature of the Circle’s control, portraying a gradual erosion of privacy and autonomy․ The film, by contrast, feels somewhat rushed and relies more on thriller tropes․
The novel’s ending is considerably darker and more ambiguous, leaving readers with a profound sense of unease․ The movie opts for a more conclusive, albeit less impactful, resolution․
Parents should be aware that the novel contains more mature themes and potentially disturbing content than the PG-13 film․ It’s a more challenging, but ultimately more rewarding, experience for older teenagers and adults․
Reading the book alongside watching the film can spark a valuable discussion about adaptation and the choices filmmakers make when translating literature to the screen․
Similar Movies with Parental Guidance Considerations
For families seeking films that explore similar themes of technology, surveillance, and societal impact, several options warrant consideration, alongside careful parental guidance․ Snowden (2016), rated R, delves into real-life surveillance concerns, featuring mature themes and language unsuitable for younger viewers․
Eagle Eye (2008), PG-13, presents a thrilling scenario of technology controlling individuals, but includes action violence that may frighten sensitive children․ The Social Network (2010), also PG-13, examines the creation of Facebook, touching upon privacy and ambition, with some mature language․
Ex Machina (2014), rated R, offers a thought-provoking exploration of artificial intelligence and its ethical implications, but contains mature themes and suggestive content․ Black Mirror (TV series) presents various dystopian tech scenarios, requiring careful episode selection based on age appropriateness․
Parents should preview these films and episodes, considering their child’s maturity level and sensitivity to potentially disturbing content․ Discussing the themes presented can foster critical thinking about technology’s role in society․
These films, like The Circle, encourage conversations about the balance between innovation and individual freedoms․
Where to Find More Information & Reviews
For a comprehensive understanding of The Circle (2017) and its suitability for your family, several online resources offer detailed information and diverse perspectives․ Common Sense Media provides an in-depth parents’ guide, covering age appropriateness, content concerns, and discussion points, offering a rating of 14+․
IMDb (Internet Movie Database) features user reviews, cast information, and plot summaries, allowing you to gauge general audience reception․ Rotten Tomatoes aggregates critic reviews, providing a percentage score indicating the film’s critical acclaim, currently at 43%․
Plugged In, a division of Focus on the Family, offers a Christian perspective on the film’s content, analyzing its values and potential concerns․ Numerous film review websites, such as RogerEbert․com, provide insightful critiques and analyses․
Exploring these resources will equip you with a well-rounded understanding of the film’s themes and content, enabling an informed decision about whether it aligns with your family’s values․ Remember to consider multiple sources for a balanced perspective․
These platforms offer valuable tools for navigating the complexities of media choices․
Streaming and Rental Options
As of today, December 12, 2025, The Circle (2017) is readily available through various streaming and rental platforms, offering convenient access for home viewing․ Amazon Prime Video allows you to rent or purchase the movie digitally, providing options for different viewing preferences․
Apple TV also offers rental and purchase options, seamlessly integrating with Apple devices․ Google Play Movies & TV provides another digital platform for accessing the film․ For physical media enthusiasts, DVD and Blu-ray copies are available for purchase from retailers like Amazon and Walmart․
Vudu is another digital option, offering both rental and purchase choices․ Subscription-based streaming services like Hulu and Netflix may occasionally feature The Circle in their rotating catalogs, so checking their current offerings is recommended․
Prices for rental typically range from $3․99 to $5․99, while purchasing options generally fall between $9․99 and $14․99․ Availability may vary depending on your region․
Always verify the streaming or rental option before committing to ensure compatibility with your devices․
Overall Parental Recommendation
The Circle (2017) receives a cautious recommendation for parents, primarily suited for mature teenagers and adults due to its complex thematic elements and mild mature content․ The PG-13 rating is accurate, reflecting a sexual situation, brief strong language, and exploration of potentially disturbing concepts surrounding privacy and surveillance․
Younger viewers may struggle with the film’s nuanced message and the unsettling implications of unchecked technological advancement․ Open communication and post-viewing discussions are crucial for older teenagers to process the film’s themes effectively․ Parents should be prepared to address questions about data privacy, social media’s influence, and the ethical responsibilities of technology companies․
While the film contains minimal explicit content, its psychological intensity and thought-provoking nature make it less appropriate for younger audiences․ The movie’s slow pace and somewhat unsatisfying ending may also not appeal to all viewers․
Ultimately, parents should exercise discretion and consider their child’s maturity level before allowing them to watch The Circle․