The Farewell

The Farewell

Movie (2019)

Based on an actual lie.

A headstrong Chinese-American woman returns to China when her beloved grandmother is given a terminal diagnosis. Billi struggles with her family's decision to keep grandma in the dark about her own illness as they all stage an impromptu wedding to see grandma one last time.

Comedy
Drama
100 minutes
Released
Jump to family guidance

Family guidance

Ages 10+

The themes of terminal illness and impending death are emotionally heavy, requiring a level of maturity to process. Younger viewers may find the cultural focus on withholding the truth from a loved one confusing or distressing.

Every child is different. Use this guide alongside what you know about yours.

What to know before you start

Content details to help you decide what fits your child.

Sex & Nudity

1/5

There is a brief scene involving a new couple together in bed, but it is not sexual in nature. The film maintains a focus on family dynamics rather than romantic or sexual themes.

Violence & Gore

0/5

There is no physical violence or gore in this film. The story is entirely focused on emotional conflicts and family interactions.

Profanity

2/5

The film contains mild language, including the occasional use of 'sh*t' and 'f*ck' used in casual conversation or emotional frustration; these instances are infrequent.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

2/5

Social drinking occurs during family dinners and wedding celebrations as part of cultural tradition. There is also a scene involving the grandmother smoking cigarettes.

Frightening Scenes

2/5

The movie deals with heavy, emotional themes regarding terminal illness and grief, which may be intense for younger viewers to process. There are no jump scares or horror elements, but the emotional weight is persistent.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This is a thoughtful story about how different cultures show love to their family members when they are going through a hard time, teaching us that there are many ways to support the people we care about.

Content Warnings

Death of a family member

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The film focuses on a family's decision to conceal a terminal diagnosis, which might prompt difficult questions from children regarding honesty and illness. There is no intense violence or sexual content, making it suitable for older children and teens who can handle emotional weight.

What Kids Can Learn

Develops emotional intelligence and cross-cultural competence by exploring how different societies define 'truth' and 'mercy' within a family unit.

Key Topics Discussed

Grief
Cultural identity
Generational differences

Why Parents Might Like It

It provides a deeply moving and sophisticated look at the immigrant experience and the complexities of filial piety.

Positives & learning

Positive messages

5/5

Emphasizes the profound importance of familial loyalty, sacrifice, and the lengths people go to for those they love. It highlights the beauty of multi-generational connection and cultural traditions.

Role models

4/5

Characters demonstrate deep empathy and resilience while navigating complex ethical dilemmas. They show how to balance personal grief with the duty to provide comfort to others.

Representation

5/5

Features an authentic, nuanced portrayal of a Chinese-American family. It avoids stereotypes, offering a grounded look at the diasporic experience and specific cultural values.

Learning

4/5

Offers a window into Eastern versus Western perspectives on truth and individual health. It provides a unique opportunity for discussions about cultural differences in communication and family expectations.

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