The Last Metro (1980)
Story overview
Set in Nazi-occupied Paris during World War II, 'The Last Metro' follows actress Marion Steiner, who must secretly manage a theater while hiding her Jewish husband, Lucas, in the basement to protect him from persecution. As she navigates the challenges of producing a play under German scrutiny and collaborates with a new leading actor, Bernard, the film explores themes of survival, artistic integrity, and quiet resistance against oppression, all while maintaining a tense, dramatic atmosphere.
Parent Guide
A thoughtful, slow-burning drama set in WWII Paris, focusing on themes of survival, art, and quiet defiance. Suitable for mature children aged 8+ with parental guidance, due to its historical context and emotional depth, but contains no explicit content.
Content breakdown
No graphic violence shown. Includes tense situations related to wartime occupation, such as characters hiding from Nazis, occasional shouting or threats by German soldiers, and a general atmosphere of fear and peril. Some scenes depict emotional distress due to persecution.
Mildly disturbing due to the wartime setting and themes of anti-Semitism and hiding. Scenes of characters in fear of discovery or dealing with oppression may be unsettling for sensitive viewers, but nothing is graphically depicted. The tone is more dramatic than horrifying.
No strong or offensive language noted. Dialogue is in French with subtitles, focusing on dramatic and artistic expression without profanity.
No sexual content or nudity. The film includes romantic undertones and relationships, but these are portrayed subtly and without explicit scenes.
No depiction of substance use. Characters may be seen in social settings like theaters or cafes, but no smoking, drinking, or drug use is highlighted.
Moderate emotional intensity due to the high-stakes situation of hiding from Nazis and the pressures of wartime. Characters experience fear, anxiety, and moral dilemmas, which may evoke strong feelings in viewers, especially those sensitive to themes of injustice and survival.
Parent tips
This historical drama deals with mature themes of war, persecution, and moral dilemmas in a restrained, artistic manner. While rated PG, it may be too slow-paced or emotionally complex for younger children. Best suited for viewers aged 8+ who can handle discussions about historical injustice and subtle tension. Contains no graphic violence, strong language, or explicit content, but the wartime setting and themes of hiding and fear require parental guidance for context.
Parent chat guide
Parent follow-up questions
- Did you see any characters being kind to each other in the movie?
- What was your favorite part of the play they put on?
- Why do you think Marion had to hide her husband? How would you feel in that situation?
- What does it mean to be brave, like the characters in the film?
- How did the characters use art and theater as a form of resistance during the war?
- What are some ways people can help others who are being treated unfairly, based on what you saw?
- Discuss the moral complexities Marion faces: balancing survival, art, and resistance. What would you have done differently?
- How does the film portray the impact of occupation on daily life and personal relationships? Compare it to other historical dramas you've seen.
Where to watch
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Trailer
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