This Is Not a Test (2026) is a United States survival horror and psychological drama film. It is directed by Adam MacDonald and written by MacDonald, adapted from the 2012 young adult novel by Courtney Summers.
The film stars Olivia Holt, Froy Gutierrez, and Luke Macfarlane. The story follows a group of six students who barricade themselves inside a high school during a sudden zombie outbreak.
At the center is Sloane Price, a teen already struggling with severe depression before the apocalypse begins. The film focuses on survival, trauma, and the emotional weight of choosing to live. This Is Not a Test received festival attention in late 2025 and is scheduled for a U.S. theatrical release on February 20, 2026.
This Is Not a Test Age Rating
This Is Not a Test is officially rated R for strong bloody violence and gore, suicide, language, some sexuality, and brief teen drinking. This rating reflects the film’s graphic horror elements and its heavy psychological subject matter, especially its frank portrayal of suicidal ideation and emotional distress. The tone is bleak and intense throughout, with little relief from tension, making it unsuitable for younger audiences.
Violence & Peril
Violence is strong and graphic, consistent with modern zombie horror. Characters are attacked by infected people, with visible blood, wounds, and gore. Some deaths are prolonged and emotionally distressing rather than quick or stylized. The setting creates constant peril, with claustrophobic tension and fear escalating as resources disappear.
Language
Strong profanity appears throughout the film, including repeated use of the F-word. Characters speak realistically under stress, and language reflects panic, anger, and despair. No racial slurs are prominent, but verbal aggression is common.
Mature Themes
The film heavily explores suicide, depression, and self-harm through the main character’s internal struggle. These themes are explicit and emotionally intense. There are brief sexual references, mild teen drinking, and some suggestive dialogue. Smoking is minimal, but emotional trauma and hopelessness are central to the story.
Is This Is Not a Test Suitable for Teens?
Ages 13–15: No. The graphic violence and direct focus on suicide make this film inappropriate for younger teens.
Ages 16–17: With Guidance. Older teens may handle the horror elements, but the mental health themes require parental discussion.
Adults 18+: Yes. The film is clearly designed for mature viewers who can process its emotional weight.
Final Recommendation: Best suited for adults and older teens with strong emotional maturity and parental guidance.
What Parents Can Do
- Prepare teens for the film’s serious focus on suicide and mental health struggles.
- Discuss how the movie portrays trauma, survival, and the value of seeking help.
- Encourage conversation after viewing about emotional resilience and real-world support systems.
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for This Is Not a Test?
A: The film is rated R for strong bloody violence, gore, suicide, language, some sexuality, and brief teen drinking.
Q: Is This Is Not a Test appropriate for kids?
A: No. The content is far too intense and mature for children.
Q: Are there scary or violent scenes?
A: Yes. The movie includes graphic zombie attacks, blood, and sustained suspense.
Q: Does the film include strong language?
A: Yes. Strong profanity appears throughout the film.
Q: Is there sexual content in the movie?
A: There are brief sexual references and mild suggestive dialogue, but no explicit scenes.
Q: Where can I watch This Is Not a Test?
A: The film releases theatrically in the U.S. on February 20, 2026.