The Child (2005)

Kernel Score: 78% · 277 ratings · Rated R

Genres: Drama

Released: 2005-10-19

Runtime: 96 minutes

Where to watch The Child

  • Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

US availability, updated 2026-10-22.

Overview

A poor young Belgian mother wants her petty thief of a boyfriend to be gainfully employed to raise their newborn child, but he has other ideas.

The Child parents' guide: ages 15+

Parents need to know that The Child is an R-rated drama about a young couple struggling with drug dealing and irresponsible parenthood.

  • Violence & scariness: Some — Includes petty crime and a tense atmosphere around a drug-dealer boyfriend.
  • Drinking, drugs & smoking: Moderate — Drug dealing is central to the plot.

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

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Director

Luc Dardenne

Cast

  • Jérémie Renier as Bruno
  • Déborah François as Sonia
  • Olivier Gourmet as Policier
  • Jérémie Segard as Steve
  • Stéphane Bissot as La receleuse
  • François Olivier as Remy
  • Mireille Bailly as Mère de Bruno
  • Fabrizio Rongione as Jeune Bandit
  • Anne Gerard as Commerçante
  • Bernard Marbaix as Commerçante

The Child FAQ

Is The Child good?

The Child has a 78% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 277 audience ratings.

Where can I watch The Child?

In the US you can rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is The Child OK for kids?

The Child is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 15+. Parents need to know that The Child is an R-rated drama about a young couple struggling with drug dealing and irresponsible parenthood.

What movies are like The Child?

If you liked The Child, try Mildred Pierce, The Judge, Short Term 12 and Chicuarotes.