Dune: Part Two parents guide: Is the PG-13 sci-fi film okay for kids?

Warner Bros. Pictures' Dune: Part Two has arrived! The Denis Villeneuve-helmed feature film adaptation is finally available to watch on Max (formerly HBO Max) -- meaning there's a pretty good chance your kids might be interested.

The first film, Dune, an adaptation of the classic sci-fi novel by Frank Herbert, was released in 2021 to critical acclaim. And the sequel similarly won acclaim, racking up glowing reviews and, as of this writing, $684.5 at the global box office.

Dune: Part Two marks the return of an all-star cast including Timothée Chalamet (Wonka), Zendaya (Spider-Man: No Way Home), Rebecca Ferguson (Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning), Josh Brolin (Dune), Austin Butler (The Bikeriders), Dave Bautista (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3). Florence Pugh (Oppenheimer) has been added to the cast as Princess Irulan, daughter of Shaddam IV portrayed by Christopher Walken (Wild Mountain Thyme).

Dune: Part Two follows Paul Atriedes (Chalamet) as he unites with his love interest, Chani (Zendaya), and the Freman to exact revenge on his enemies that have harmed his family. The film is produced by Legendary Pictures. Villeneuve wrote the script alongside known sci-fi screenwriter Jon Spaihts, who also wrote the 2021 film.

So, now that you know more about the film, get ready to find out if Dune: Part Two is worth booting up on Max, or if your kids should sit this one out.

Dune: Part Two (2024) Parents Guide: Explaining The PG-13 Age Rating

Dune: Part Two is rated PG-13 by the MPA for "sequences of strong violence, some suggestive material, and brief strong language." Is that accurate? Let's find out!

Sex & Nudity: The lead characters are seen together after being intimate with each other. There is some kissing in the film but nothing too graphic. There are characters who are shirtless in the film and some sensuality is referenced as well. An unborn baby is seen.

Violence: There is a hefty level of violence in this film as well as references to war and death. We see characters getting shocked. A character gets his head smashed in while others are beaten to death with rocks. There is a ton of neck-snapping and more moves that are proven lethal. Ships are blown up. Flamethrowers are used. Dead bodies are shown.

Language: Cursing and derogatory language and name calling is heard throughout the film. It's something to take note of if you or your kids are sensitive to that.

Drinking & Drugs: One character is seen smoking from a hookah pen. Spice is referenced in the film as a drug with addictive properties.

Overall Verdict: What Age Is Dune: Part Two Appropriate For?

This movie is definitely made for ages 13 and up. With a PG-13 rating, this film may seem tame from the trailer but as you have read above, the film contains different elements that may be shocking to young viewers. When you go into your local theater, you may see people bringing their kids to see this film. At the end of the day, it is up to you to decide if your kids should see the film -- and at least with home viewing, you can pause and discuss if there are concerning scenes.

There is some form of messaging in the film that kids can learn from. Due to everything that Paul has gone through, we see him change from a respected hero by the Freman people to trying to gain power over everyone, furthering his plan for revenge. Viewers can see Chani as a positive role model as she thinks with her head and stays steadfast in her decisions, even if she may be swayed by external forces. Even in this dystopian sci-fi world, there are elements of reinforcing family, legacy, and appreciation of others, preservation, and protection of history.

This article has been updated to reflect information about the Dune: Part Two digital release.