The Color Purple (1985)
A young woman endures decades of hardship in the South, finding her voice through an uplifting, epic journey.
An epic tale spanning forty years in the life of Celie, an African-American woman living in the South who survives incredible abuse and bigotry. After Celie's abusive father marries her off to the equally debasing 'Mister' Albert Johnson, things go from bad to worse, leaving Celie to find companionship anywhere she can. She perseveres, holding on to her dream of one day being reunited with her sister in Africa.
How intense is The Color Purple?
The Color Purple is mildly scary, with light gore and strong violence. Emotionally it is devastating. The pace is measured, and it is a full-attention watch and a family watch. Rated PG-13.
What The Color Purple feels like
- Tone
- bleakupliftingheartwarmingepicearnest
- Pace
- Measured
- Best for
- Full attentionFamily night
Where to stream The Color Purple
Not on a US subscription service at our last check. Rent or buy may still be an option.
US availability via TMDB, last checked Sep 15, 2026. The app filters picks to the services you actually have.
Is The Color Purple for you?
Is The Color Purple scary?
Only a little. The Color Purple has a few tense moments (scare level 1 of 3), nothing that follows you to bed.
Is The Color Purple gory or violent?
Light gore (1 of 3) and strong violence (2 of 3).
Is The Color Purple sad or heavy?
Yes. Emotional weight 3 of 3. It hits hard; do not plan anything light after.
Is The Color Purple OK for kids?
It is rated PG-13. Intensity: scare 1, gore 1, violence 2, each out of 3. Your call for older kids.
How long is The Color Purple?
The Color Purple runs 2h 34m.
Where can I stream The Color Purple?
The Color Purple is not on a US subscription service right now (rent or buy may still be an option).
Does The Color Purple have a happy ending? spoiler-safe answer
Yes. It lands on a happy note.
Cast and crew
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