Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Watch

Loading streaming options...

Screenwise Verdict

Anne With An E is a stunning, emotionally intelligent reimagining that transforms a beloved classic into something much darker and more socially conscious. If you're expecting the gentle, optimistic Anne of Green Gables from your childhood, buckle up—this version explicitly shows child abuse, tackles racism and homophobia head-on, and doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of the 1890s.

That said, it's also genuinely excellent television. Anne is a phenomenal character—fierce, imaginative, intellectually curious, and resilient in the face of real trauma. The show uses her story to explore belonging, identity, and social justice in ways that feel both historically grounded and relevant today. The 8.7 TMDB rating isn't an accident; this resonates deeply with viewers who can handle the weight.

The challenge? It's heavy. Really heavy. The abuse isn't implied—it's shown. The trauma responses are realistic. The social issues aren't sanitized. This makes it incredibly enriching and conversation-worthy for mature tweens and teens, but potentially overwhelming or triggering for younger or more sensitive kids. Watch together, be ready to pause and talk, and know what you're getting into. This isn't cozy family viewing—it's powerful, purposeful, and sometimes painful television that happens to center a 13-year-old.

Age Fit

Best for mature 12+ who can handle heavy themes and trauma content. The gorgeous cinematography and strong storytelling appeal to teens and adults, but the darkness and abuse depictions are genuinely intense—not for sensitive or younger viewers despite the 'family drama' label.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

72

Models resilience, kindness, and acceptance through Anne's journey from trauma to belonging. However, the show directly addresses heavy themes including child abuse, racism, LGBTQ+ discrimination, and bullying—handled thoughtfully but not always lightly. The emotional tone can be intense and melancholic, particularly around Anne's traumatic past. Positive relationships and character growth are central, but the pacing and darkness may feel heavy for sensitive viewers.

Imaginative

85

Anne's 'brilliant imagination' is the heart of the show—her creative storytelling, poetic observations, and fierce intellectual curiosity drive the narrative. The period setting (1890s) offers rich historical context that invites exploration of a different era. Anne's unique perspective transforms her community, modeling how creativity and original thinking can change the world. Strong emphasis on literature, nature, and self-expression.

Safe

58

Contains significant triggering content that parents should know about upfront: explicit references to Anne's physical and emotional abuse in orphanages and foster homes, including scenes showing her trauma responses. Addresses racism (including a KKK-style storyline), homophobia, sexism, and bullying. Some violence and intense emotional scenes. A character experiences sexual assault (handled carefully but present). While the show handles these topics with care and purpose, they are NOT light or unexpected—this is a darker, more mature reimagining of the source material than many parents anticipate.

Enriching

88

Exceptional character development and exploration of complex social issues: gender equality, Indigenous rights, LGBTQ+ acceptance, class dynamics, and overcoming trauma. Anne's intellectual growth and fierce advocacy for justice provide strong role models. The show tackles difficult historical realities with nuance, building empathy and historical understanding. Promotes critical thinking about societal norms and standing up for what's right. High emotional intelligence and meaningful conversations about identity, belonging, and resilience.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Anne is a fierce, brilliant, trauma-surviving heroine who models resilience and standing up for what's right—perfect for kids who feel like outsiders
Tackles real historical issues (racism, women's rights, LGBTQ+ acceptance) with nuance and heart, sparking meaningful family conversations
Beautifully shot period drama that brings imagination and literature to life—Anne's creativity is genuinely inspiring
Strong character development and emotional intelligence throughout; shows how communities can grow and change
High audience rating (8.7/10) reflects genuine quality and emotional resonance

⚠

What to Watch For

This is NOT the gentle Anne you grew up with—explicit depictions of child abuse, trauma responses, and flashbacks to Anne's horrific past experiences
Mature storylines include racism (KKK-style mob), homophobia, a sexual assault storyline, and intense bullying
The emotional tone is often dark and heavy; sensitive kids may find it overwhelming
Some parents may find the progressive social themes more pronounced than expected for a period drama
Best watched together so you can process the heavy stuff and answer questions

Conversation Starters

"Anne's imagination helps her survive really hard times. What helps you when things feel tough?"
"The show deals with people being treated unfairly because of who they are. Have you ever seen that happen, or experienced it yourself?"
"Anne changes people's minds by being herself and speaking up. When have you had to be brave like that?"
"How do you think Anne's past affects the way she sees the world? Can hard experiences make you stronger?"
"What did you think about how the townspeople reacted to [specific storyline]? What would you have done?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic