"The Covenant" is a 2023 action-thriller film directed by Guy Ritchie, starring Jake Gyllenhaal as U.S. Army Sergeant John Kinley. The movie is set in Afghanistan and revolves around the bond between Kinley and his interpreter, Ahmed, played by Dar Salim. It explores themes of duty, friendship, and the promise of protection in the midst of war.
Plot Summary
Sergeant Kinley and his unit are tasked with tracking down Taliban weapons, assisted by local interpreters promised visas to the United States. After an ambush, Kinley and Ahmed are stranded behind enemy lines. Ahmed risks his life to save Kinley, but upon Kinley's return home, he discovers that Ahmed and his family are still in danger. Driven by a sense of duty and friendship, Kinley decides to return to Afghanistan to fulfill his promise and save his friend.
Content Advisory for Parents
"The Covenant" is rated R by the MPAA for violence, language throughout, and brief drug content. Here's a breakdown of the film's content that parents should be aware of:
Violence & Gore
The movie features numerous intense combat sequences, including gunfire and explosions, with bloody wounds depicted. Taliban forces are shown as the enemy, and there are scenes of torture and characters being injured or killed. While not excessively gory, the violence is realistic and can be intense.
Profanity
The film contains a substantial amount of strong language, with roughly 46 uses of "fuck," 14 occurrences of "shit," 2 instances of "ass," 1 use of "damn," 1 use of "god," and 2 instances of "god-damn." The language is pervasive and may not be suitable for younger audiences.
Drug & Substance Use
Two characters are shown smoking opium for medicinal purposes, and a character's past involvement in the heroin trade is mentioned. Drinking is depicted, particularly among soldiers, with one instance of a character appearing drunk and getting into an argument.
Frightening & Intense Scenes
Though not necessarily frightening, the film is tense and suspenseful, with many scenes filled with anticipation and danger. Parents should consider the emotional impact on younger viewers.
Friendship and Loyalty
The movie highlights themes of friendship, loyalty, and the "covenant" between Kinley and Ahmed. It raises questions about the responsibilities and bonds formed during wartime, as well as the moral implications of leaving allies behind.
Discussion Points for Families
Parents can use the film as a starting point for discussions about the realities of war, the treatment of interpreters and allies, and the importance of keeping one's promises. It also opens up conversations about the ethical complexities of international conflicts and the challenges faced by soldiers and civilians alike.
Final Thoughts
While "The Covenant" offers a gripping and emotionally charged narrative, its mature content makes it more appropriate for adult audiences or older teenagers with parental guidance. Parents should consider the film's themes and content carefully before deciding if it is suitable for their children.
