Kes (1970)

Kernel Score: 85% · 431 ratings · Rated PG-13

Genres: Drama

Released: 1970-04-03

Runtime: 111 minutes

Where to watch Kes

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

Bullied at school and ignored and abused at home by his indifferent mother and older brother, Billy Casper, a 15-year-old working-class Yorkshire boy, tames and trains his pet kestrel falcon whom he names Kes. Helped and encouraged by his English teacher and his fellow students, Billy finally finds a positive purpose to his unhappy existence.

Kes parents' guide: ages 11+

Parents need to know that Kes is a British drama about a bullied, neglected working-class boy who finds purpose training a pet falcon.

  • Violence & scariness: Some — Depicts school bullying and an abusive, dysfunctional home life.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official PG-13 rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Director

Ken Loach

Cast

  • David Bradley as Billy
  • Freddie Fletcher as Jud
  • Lynne Perrie as Mrs. Casper
  • Colin Welland as Mr. Farthing
  • Brian Glover as Mr. Sugden
  • Bob Bowes as Mr. Gryce
  • Bernard Atha as Youth Employment Officer
  • Laurence Bould
  • Joey Kaye as Pub Comic
  • Ted Carroll

Kes FAQ

Is Kes good?

Kes has an 85% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 431 audience ratings.

Where can I watch Kes?

In the US you can stream Kes on Prime Video, Fubo, Philo and MGM+, watch it free with ads on The Roku Channel, YouTube Free and Tubi and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is Kes OK for kids?

Kes is rated PG-13. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that Kes is a British drama about a bullied, neglected working-class boy who finds purpose training a pet falcon.

What movies are like Kes?

If you liked Kes, try How Green Was My Valley, There Will Be Blood, Bellissima and This Boy's Life.