Protector (2026) is a United States action thriller blending crime drama with relentless, grounded combat. The film is directed by Adrian Grünberg and written by Bong-Seob Mun. It stars Milla Jovovich, Isabel Myers, Matthew Modine, Manny Montana, and D. B. Sweeney.
The story follows Nikki, a former war hero who left violence behind to raise her daughter. Her quiet life collapses when a human trafficking ring abducts her child. With time running out, Nikki reenters the criminal underworld to rescue her daughter. The film is an original story, not based on a book or franchise. Protector is scheduled for theatrical release on February 20, 2026, distributed by Magenta Light Studios.
Protector Age Rating
Protector is officially rated R by the MPAA for strong bloody violence and pervasive language. The rating reflects frequent combat scenes, intense physical confrontations, and realistic injury detail. The tone is gritty and relentless, with little relief between violent sequences. The film presents danger as constant and emotionally stressful, making it unsuitable for younger viewers.
Violence & Peril
Violence is strong and sustained throughout the film. Nikki engages in brutal hand-to-hand combat, shootings, and tactical assaults against criminals. Blood is visible, injuries are graphic, and deaths are shown on screen. The subject of human trafficking adds emotional intensity and menace. Tension is high from start to finish, with repeated life-threatening situations.
Language
Language use is frequent and strong. Characters regularly use the F-word and other harsh profanity during confrontations and stressful moments. Insults and aggressive verbal threats are common. The language level firmly supports the R rating.
Mature Themes
The film centers on human trafficking, child endangerment, trauma, and vigilantism. Emotional distress involving a kidnapped child is a major focus. Characters operate outside the law, raising moral questions about violence and justice. Smoking and criminal behavior appear in background scenes. There is no explicit sexual content, but the themes are heavy and disturbing.
Is Protector Suitable for Teens?
Ages 12–14: No. The violence, language, and themes of child trafficking are far too intense for this age group.
Ages 15–16: Not Recommended. Some older teens may tolerate the action, but the brutality and emotional subject matter are overwhelming.
Ages 17+: With Caution. Mature older teens may handle the content, but parental awareness is strongly advised.
Overall recommendation: Best suited for adults and viewers 17+ due to graphic violence and disturbing themes.
What Parents Can Do
- Prepare teens for the film’s intense violence and emotionally heavy subject matter before viewing.
- Discuss the real-world seriousness of human trafficking and why it is portrayed as horrifying.
- Talk after the film about vigilantism, trauma, and healthier ways to process fear and anger.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Protector (2026)?
A: The film is rated R for strong bloody violence and pervasive language.
Q: Is Protector appropriate for kids?
A: No. The content is too violent and emotionally disturbing for children.
Q: Is Protector suitable for teens?
A: It is not recommended for teens under 17 due to graphic violence and mature themes.
Q: Are there scary or intense scenes?
A: Yes. The film contains nonstop peril, brutal fights, and constant threats.
Q: Does the film include sexual content?
A: There is no explicit sexual content, but the theme of human trafficking is present.
Q: Where can parents watch Protector?
A: The film Protector will release in theaters on February 20, 2026.