PG-13

Seven Years in Tibet

At the end of the world his real journey began.

1997 • 136 min • Adventure · Drama · History

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Synopsis

Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer journeys to the Himalayas without his family to head an expedition in 1939. But when World War II breaks out, the arrogant Harrer falls into Allied forces' hands as a prisoner of war. He escapes with a fellow detainee and makes his way to Lhasa, Tibet, where he meets the 14-year-old Dalai Lama, whose friendship ultimately transforms his outlook on life.

Our family guide

Best from age 13

Movie Knight Score

3181 reviews

72 Audience · 3181 · 100%

Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer leaves his family for a 1939 expedition, but becomes a World War II prisoner of war. He escapes to Lhasa, Tibet, where his unexpected friendship with the young Dalai Lama profoundly transforms his arrogant outlook on life.

Violence & peril: 3/10
Language: 1/10
Drinking, drugs & smoking: 2/10
Romance & sensuality: 1/10
Scary moments: 2/10

Heads up

Historical footage of WWII-era conflict and imprisonment.
Depictions of cultural differences and some prejudice.
Characters briefly drink and smoke in social settings.

What it models well

Personal growth and transformation
Friendship and mentorship
Cultural understanding
Resilience in adversity

Talk about it after

The impacts of war and isolation on individuals.
The importance of embracing new cultures and perspectives.
How unlikely friendships can change lives.
The concept of spiritual leadership and peace.

Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for Seven Years in Tibet. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.