Songwriter (2018) Movie Review (2025)

Parents need to know that Songwriter (2018) is a documentary about pop sensation Ed Sheeran's process making a new album. The emphasis is on the songwriting phase, of course, but recording and mixing the album are also shown. Band rehearsal and touring are also briefly explored. Expect some salty language, not too often, including "f--k," "s--t," and "hell." One song about physical attraction and intimacy isn't explicit but mentions things like how his bedsheets "smell like you." Drinking alcohol is shown two or three times. One collaborator almost always has a cigarette in his mouth, and Sheeran smokes several times. Sheeran comes across as an affable, down-to-earth fellow who's stayed close with friends and family while achieving every aspiring musician's dream.

To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails.

Language

some

"F--k," "s--t," "hell," and "penis."

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

some

One collaborator almost always has a cigarette in his mouth. Sheeran smokes several times. One or two brief scenes show alcohol consumption, usually at parties or celebrating album launch. Some song lyrics mention alcohol, cigarettes. For one song a producer encourages Sheeran to think up a lyric with alcohol or cigarettes to show mood.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

very little

One or two brief kisses. One song about physical attraction and intimacy isn't explicit but mentions things like how his bedsheets "smell like you."

Products & Purchases

very little

Lots of clothing with logos, mostly for sports teams. In an extended scene, Sheeran's wearing a Hooter's T-shirt.

Positive Messages

some

Songwriting, recording, and performing are collaborative efforts. "Teamwork makes the dream work."

Positive Role Models

some

Ed Sheeran comes across as affable, down-to-earth. He collaborates well with others, remaining open to other ideas that help him flesh out his own. He keeps close ties with his family, still refers to his mother as "Mommy," and unabashedly sings about emotions not often heard in pop music, such as love for his brother. He's shown visiting his old high school, teaching students about music, songwriting. He's shown smoking several times, drinking alcohol once or twice.