The Observance is a 2026 American psychological horror thriller centered on cult control and psychological trauma. The film is directed by Robert Hollocks, who co-wrote the screenplay with Amy Rhinehart Bailey.
The cast includes Kate Dailey, Alec James, and horror genre veteran Ted Raimi. The story follows Madison Neubauer, a woman who awakens from a five-year coma to find her family and town overtaken by a dangerous religious cult.
The film is not based on a true story but draws inspiration from real-world cult psychology and manipulation. It opens in select AMC Theatres on February 13, 2026, with a digital and VOD release scheduled for May 6, 2026, through Beyond Casual Media.
The Observance Age Rating
The Observance is rated R by the MPAA for bloody violence, suicide, and some language. This rating reflects the film’s disturbing subject matter, graphic horror elements, and emotionally heavy themes involving coercion, loss of agency, and self-harm. The tone remains bleak and oppressive throughout, making it unsuitable for younger viewers and potentially upsetting even for some adults.
Violence & Peril
Violence in The Observance is strong and graphic, aligning with the cult-horror genre. The film contains bloody injuries, physical assaults, and implied ritualistic violence. Several scenes are intense and unsettling, with prolonged tension and fear rather than quick action. The constant sense of danger and psychological menace adds to the overall distressing experience.
Language
The film includes some strong profanity, including occasional use of harsh expletives. Language is not constant but appears during moments of emotional breakdown, fear, or confrontation. There are no racial slurs, but the verbal intensity matches the film’s dark tone.
Mature Themes
Mature themes are central to the story and include suicide, psychological manipulation, religious extremism, loss of identity, and emotional abuse. The film depicts cult indoctrination and blind obedience, with characters pressured into extreme sacrifices. There is no explicit sexual content, but the themes of control and coercion may be deeply disturbing. Smoking and substance use are minimal or not emphasized.
Is The Observance Suitable for Teens?
Ages 13–15: No. The graphic violence, suicide themes, and intense psychological horror make this film inappropriate for younger teens. The subject matter is too heavy and frightening for this age group.
Ages 16–17: With Guidance. Older teens with experience in mature horror may handle the film, but parental discretion is strongly advised. Discussions about cult behavior and mental health are essential.
Adults 18+: Yes. This film is clearly designed for adult audiences who can process its disturbing themes and sustained intensity.
Final Recommendation: The Observance is best suited for viewers aged 18 and older.
What Parents Can Do
- Talk with teens about how cults manipulate belief systems and isolate individuals from loved ones.
- Prepare sensitive viewers for depictions of suicide and psychological abuse before watching.
- Encourage discussion afterward about mental health, autonomy, and recognizing real-world warning signs.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for The Observance?
A: The Observance is rated R for bloody violence, suicide, and some language.
Q: Is The Observance appropriate for teens?
A: It is not suitable for younger teens and only appropriate for older teens with parental guidance.
Q: Does the movie contain graphic violence?
A: Yes, the film includes bloody violence and disturbing imagery tied to cult activity.
Q: Is there strong language in the film?
A: There is some strong profanity, though it is not constant throughout the movie.
Q: Does The Observance include sexual content or nudity?
A: No explicit sexual content or nudity is present, but mature psychological themes dominate.
Q: Where can I watch The Observance?
A: The film opens in select AMC Theatres on February 13, 2026, and arrives on digital and VOD platforms on May 6, 2026.