Felon
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to Felon
Felon (2008) is a gritty and intense prison drama that follows Wade Porter, a family man whose life is irrevocably altered after he unintentionally kills a burglar in self-defense. Convicted of involuntary manslaughter, Wade is sentenced to a maximum-security prison. The film plunges viewers into the brutal realities of the correctional system, where he must contend with sadistic prison guards and a hierarchy of violent inmates. It explores themes of survival, justice, and the dehumanizing effects of incarceration, as Wade struggles to maintain his sanity and humanity with the hope of returning to his fiancée and son. The movie is aimed at a mature audience due to its raw depiction of violence and harsh language.
Things to Consider
Violence
The film features pervasive and brutal violence, which is central to the narrative of prison life. This includes graphic physical assaults, stabbings, and killings, often depicted with visceral detail.
Wade Porter fatally strikes an intruder in the head with a baseball bat, resulting in graphic death. In the prison, John Smith kills Lieutenant Jackson by severing his femoral artery and throat with a shiv, depicted with visible blood. Inmates are forced into 'gladiatorial combat' where brutal, bare-knuckle fights occur, and a character is stabbed on a bus early in the film.
Profanity
The movie contains pervasive strong language, reflecting the harsh prison environment. Frequent use of expletives and offensive terms contributes significantly to the film's gritty tone.
Scary & Intense Content
The movie is consistently intense and suspenseful, portraying a frightening and dehumanizing prison environment. It features disturbing imagery, constant threats of violence, and psychological distress, making it emotionally exhausting.
Disrespect & Rebellion
Disrespect for authority and rebellious behavior are prevalent, both among inmates challenging prison rules and from corrupt guards abusing their power. The prison system itself is depicted as fostering defiance and a lack of respect for human dignity.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
17+ due to extensive and graphic violence, pervasive strong language, and brief nudity. The film's mature themes and intense depiction of prison brutality make it unsuitable for younger viewers.
Good to Know
The film is a standalone feature and does not have known sequels or adaptations that introduce new or intensified content concerns. The portrayal of the prison system is intended to be realistic and unflinching, which contributes to the high intensity of several content concerns.
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