40 Acres is a 2024 Canadian post-apocalyptic thriller written and directed by R. T. Thorne in his feature film debut. The movie stars Danielle Deadwyler as the leader of a family descended from African American farmers who settled in Canada after the American Civil War.
Set 200 years into the future, the story takes place in a harsh world where food is scarce and survival is everything. A Black farming family must protect their land from violent outsiders who want to take their resources. The film mixes action, survival drama, and deep cultural themes.
40 Acres premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and is scheduled for release in Canada by Mongrel Media.
40 Acres Age Rating
Rated R for strong bloody violent content and language. Below is a detailed breakdown of the movie’s key content areas to help parents decide if it’s suitable for their teens:
Violence
The film contains many intense and brutal action scenes. While not always graphic, the violence is very realistic and emotionally intense. There are scenes involving attacks with weapons, gunfights, and the aftermath of violent acts. Some moments include blood, loud sound effects, and shocking situations. The setting is grim, and danger is a constant threat for the characters.
Language
There is a moderate amount of strong language used throughout the film. While not excessive, the dialogue includes words that reflect the serious and desperate tone of the story.
Mature Themes
The story explores survival under extreme conditions, including fear, loss, and the defense of family. Characters face moral challenges in a dangerous world. While not always graphic, the emotional themes are intense and may be upsetting for younger viewers.
Sexual Content
There is one brief, suggestive scene that implies a teenage character is dealing with natural curiosity. This moment is mild and not explicit.
Substance Use
There are a few scenes showing alcohol or drug use, though it is not a major part of the story.
Is 40 Acres Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–13: Not suitable. The film’s intense violence, mature subject matter, and strong language make it inappropriate for pre-teens.
Ages 14–16: Not recommended for most teens. While some older teens familiar with survival or action films may be interested, the serious tone, realistic violence, and emotional heaviness could be too intense or upsetting.
40 Acres is best suited for adult audiences (17+) due to its violent content and emotionally dark setting. It is not intended for a young teen or family audience.
What Parents Can Do
Preview Before Viewing: Consider watching the film first to decide if your teen is ready for its content.
Talk About Survival and Values: If your older teen does watch, use the film as a conversation starter about survival, history, and ethical choices under pressure.
Set Viewing Limits: Be ready to turn the film off or pause if it becomes too intense.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for 40 Acres?
A: The film is rated R for strong bloody violent content and language.
Q: Is 40 Acres appropriate for teens?
A: No. Due to the realistic violence and mature themes, this film is best for adults.
Q: Does 40 Acres have graphic violence?
A: Yes, there are multiple intense scenes involving blood and action violence, though not all are shown in detail.
Q: Is there any sexual content in 40 Acres?
A: There is a very brief suggestive moment, but nothing explicit.
Q: Where can I watch 40 Acres?
A: The film will be released in Canada by Mongrel Media. A wider release may follow.