Short Term 12 (2013)

Kernel Score: 86% · 1,383 ratings · Rated R

Genres: Drama

Released: 2013-08-23

Runtime: 96 minutes

Where to watch Short Term 12

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

Grace, a compassionate young supervisor at a foster care facility, helps at-risk teens. But when a new charge dredges up memories of her own troubled past, Grace's tough exterior begins eroding.

Short Term 12 parents' guide: ages 15+

Parents need to know that Short Term 12 is an R-rated drama dealing with child abuse, suicide attempts, and incest at a foster care facility.

  • Violence & scariness: Moderate — Depicts child abuse, suicide attempts, and references to incest among at-risk teens.
  • Drinking, drugs & smoking: A little — Setting involving troubled teens may include references to substance issues typical of foster care dramas.

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

Movies like Short Term 12

If you liked Short Term 12, these are the movies we'd watch next.

Director

Destin Daniel Cretton

Cast

Short Term 12 FAQ

Is Short Term 12 good?

Short Term 12 has an 86% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 1,383 audience ratings.

Where can I watch Short Term 12?

In the US you can stream Short Term 12 on Prime Video, Fubo, Philo and Fandor, watch it free with ads on Kanopy, Hoopla, Fawesome, The Roku Channel and Fandango at Home and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is Short Term 12 OK for kids?

Short Term 12 is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 15+. Parents need to know that Short Term 12 is an R-rated drama dealing with child abuse, suicide attempts, and incest at a foster care facility.

What movies are like Short Term 12?

If you liked Short Term 12, try White Oleander, Boy A, Dog Pound and In Safe Hands.