Z (1969)
Kernel Score: 88% · 607 ratings · Rated NR
Genres: Thriller, Crime, Drama
Released: 1969-02-26
Runtime: 122 minutes
Where to watch Z
- Stream: The Criterion Channel, HBO Max
- Rent: Apple TV
- Buy: Apple TV
US availability, updated 2026-10-22.
Overview
A prominent politician is murdered during a demonstration. The government and army are trying to suppress the truth, but a tenacious magistrate is determined to not to let them get away with it.
Z parents' guide: ages 11+
Parents need to know that Z (1969) is an unrated political thriller about the assassination of a politician and the ensuing government cover-up.
- Violence & scariness: Moderate — The film centers on the assassination of a prominent politician and depicts police corruption and violent political repression.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official NR rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Movies like Z
If you liked Z, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- Missing (1982) — 80%
- JFK (1991) — 85%
- The Enforcer (2022) — 79%
- Brother 2 (2000) — 80%
- The Conformist (1971) — 86%
- The Way We Were (1973) — 78%
Director
Cast
- Yves Montand as Z
- Irene Papas as Hélène
- Jean-Louis Trintignant as Examining Magistrate
- Jacques Perrin as Photojournalist
- Charles Denner as Manuel
- François Périer as Public Prosecutor
- Bernard Fresson as Matt
- Pierre Dux as Gendarmerie General Missou
- Georges Géret as Nick
- Magali Noël as Nick's Sister
Z FAQ
Is Z good?
Z has an 88% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 607 audience ratings.
Where can I watch Z?
In the US you can stream Z on The Criterion Channel and HBO Max and rent it from Apple TV.
Is Z OK for kids?
Z is rated NR. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that Z (1969) is an unrated political thriller about the assassination of a politician and the ensuing government cover-up.
What movies are like Z?
If you liked Z, try Missing, JFK, The Enforcer and Brother 2.