Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

Dickinson is what happens when someone actually figures out how to make historical drama work for Gen Z—and it's legitimately good. The anachronistic approach could have been a gimmicky disaster, but instead it's sharp, funny, and makes Emily Dickinson feel like someone a modern teen would actually want to hang out with.

The LGBTQ+ representation is handled beautifully, with Emily's romance portrayed as central to her story rather than a side plot. For families with older teens, this can open up meaningful conversations about gender expectations, authenticity, and what it means to pursue your passion when everyone's telling you to fall in line.

That said, this is firmly 15+ territory. The sexual content is explicit enough that you don't want younger kids wandering in, and the substance use—while period-accurate—is still substance use. Common Sense Media says 14+, but the sexual scenes push it closer to 15-16 in practice.

If your teen is into history, poetry, LGBTQ+ stories, or just wants something smarter than the average Netflix fare, this delivers. It's entertaining enough to binge but substantial enough to actually stick with them.

Age Fit

This is squarely for older teens (15+) who can handle mature sexual content and substance use in context. The sexual scenes and drug use make it inappropriate for middle schoolers, despite the coming-of-age themes. Adults will enjoy it too—it's genuinely well-crafted.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

72

The show models fierce independence and authenticity through Emily's character, challenging restrictive social norms in emotionally resonant ways. However, it includes period-accurate substance use (drinking, smoking, opium), occasional profanity, and mature romantic themes including sexual content. The tone is balanced and intentional rather than chaotic, but the mature elements keep it from being fully wholesome for younger audiences.

Imaginative

88

Brilliantly inventive premise that reimagines 19th-century poet Emily Dickinson as a rebellious teenager who speaks in modern slang while navigating period settings. The anachronistic dialogue, blend of historical detail with contemporary themes, and creative use of poetry throughout make this genuinely original. It invites viewers to see classic literature and history through a fresh, unexpected lens.

Safe

58

Common Sense Media rates this 15+ for good reason. Contains explicit sexual scenes between women (with orgasmic facial expressions and implied intimacy), substance use (opium after brandy, period-accurate drinking and smoking), occasional profanity, and a scene of plucking feathers from a dead bird. While there's no graphic violence or gore, the mature sexual content and substance use make it inappropriate for younger viewers to stumble upon unexpectedly.

Enriching

84

Offers strong LGBTQ+ representation and a fierce female role model who challenges gender norms and family expectations. Can spark genuine interest in 19th-century American literature, women's history, and poetry. Encourages discussions about authenticity, self-expression, and societal constraints. The witty writing and historical setting provide cognitive engagement while the character development offers emotional insight. Entertaining enough to keep viewers engaged while delivering meaningful themes.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Genuinely creative premise that makes 19th-century poetry accessible and cool for modern teens
Strong LGBTQ+ representation with Emily's central romance portrayed as authentic and meaningful
Can spark real interest in American literature and women's history without feeling like homework
Witty anachronistic dialogue that's actually funny rather than cringy
Emily is a fierce role model for challenging societal expectations and staying true to yourself

⚠

What to Watch For

Explicit sexual content between women—not graphic nudity but definitely intimate scenes with orgasmic expressions
Period-accurate substance use including drinking, smoking, and a scene where teens take opium
Occasional profanity and one scene of plucking feathers from a dead bird
Mature themes about gender identity, family pressure, and societal constraints that need context for younger viewers

Conversation Starters

"What do you think about how they mix modern language with historical settings? Does it make the story more relatable?"
"Emily faces a lot of pressure from her family about what women 'should' do. Do you think those expectations still exist today?"
"How do you think Emily's experience as a queer woman in the 1800s compares to LGBTQ+ experiences now?"
"The show portrays Emily as rebellious and determined to be a poet despite everyone telling her no. When have you had to stand up for something you believed in?"

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