The Outrun, set for release in 2024, is based on Amy Liptrot’s bestselling memoir of the same name. The film stars Saoirse Ronan as Rona, a woman who returns to her hometown in the Orkney Islands after battling alcohol addiction in London. The film explores themes of addiction, recovery, and mental health, offering an emotionally intense narrative against the backdrop of stunning Scottish landscapes. Here’s what parents need to know about the film’s age rating and potentially sensitive content.
The Outrun Age Rating and Parents Guide
The Outrun is rated R, meaning it is restricted to viewers 17 and older unless accompanied by an adult. The rating has been given for several reasons, including strong language, brief sexual content, nudity, and mature themes related to addiction and mental health.
Why is The Outrun Rated R?
- Language
The film contains strong language, including the use of expletives. In one instance, a character refers to himself as a “crackhead.” - Nudity and Sexual Content
There are scenes of brief nudity and sexual content. One notable scene involves Rona skinny dipping, with rear nudity visible. Additionally, a woman struggling with alcohol addiction disassociates during a sexual encounter, which may be distressing for younger viewers. - Violence
While not overly violent, the film includes some moments of aggression. For example, a bottle is thrown at a person in a bar, and there is a brief fight between a drunken individual and a bouncer involving kicks and punches. There is also a scene where a man sexually threatens and chases a woman, and police later photograph her resulting bruises. - Substance Abuse
The film deals extensively with alcoholism. Throughout the movie, characters are shown binge drinking, smoking, vomiting, and engaging in physical altercations. The depiction of addiction is raw and may be too intense for younger viewers, especially scenes involving arguments, fights, and a character being verbally abusive while intoxicated. - Mental Health
A significant aspect of the film revolves around mental health, specifically bipolar disorder. A character experiences both depressive and manic episodes, one of which leads to him being sectioned (hospitalized for mental health reasons). The portrayal of mental health struggles is realistic but may be emotionally challenging for younger or sensitive audiences.
Is The Outrun Suitable for Teens?
While The Outrun offers important messages about recovery and personal growth, it is not a film aimed at young audiences. The mature themes of addiction, mental health issues, and sexual content make this film more appropriate for older teens and adults. Parents should be aware that the movie doesn’t shy away from showing the harsher realities of alcohol abuse, and the language, nudity, and moments of violence might be disturbing for younger viewers.
Themes
The film addresses important topics like:
- Addiction: The central theme of The Outrun is Rona’s struggle with alcoholism, with scenes depicting binge drinking, blackouts, and the consequences of long-term alcohol abuse.
- Mental Health: The film explores the effects of bipolar disorder, showing both manic and depressive episodes and their impact on relationships and personal well-being.
- Recovery and Redemption: While the film deals with heavy topics, it also shows the power of nature and returning to one’s roots as Rona embarks on a healing journey.
Conclusion
Parents should carefully consider whether The Outrun is suitable for their teens. With its R rating, the film contains strong language, sexual content, and heavy themes that may not be appropriate for younger viewers. However, it also offers valuable insights into addiction, mental health, and personal recovery, making it a thought-provoking film for mature audiences.