There is no sex/nudity in the film. In fact, there isn't even any kissing. So in that regard it's safer than a Disney film. As mentioned, there are a couple of scenes in which dead bodies are seen floating in the river; however, the bodies are shown from somewhat of a distance and not really focused on--all you see is a pale human form with raggedy clothes. As for the violence, there are two "action" sequences; the first contains no blood whatsoever and the second contains some blood but no gore--in other words, the combatants get blood on themselves, but because of the dark setting and the loose clothing worn by those involved, the wounds are more implied than shown. There is also another very brief scene of violence which contains a bit more blood. From my experience with American films, it is very possible the MPAA would have given it an "R" rating based on this last scene alone, but such a rating is not particularly warranted.
One last note: as mentioned, this movie can move very slowly at times. Despite the brief appearance of swords and a couple of jokes, it is neither an action film nor a comedy, but a drama about the love of a man for his family and his place as a low-class samurai in feudal Japan. Thus, regardless of the lack of sex and mildness of violence, it is an adult movie first and foremost. That said, it is a good film and it is certainly possible for relatively mature middle-schoolers to appreciate some of its finer points.
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