Ernie & Emma is a 2026 American comedy-drama set in Southern Oregon and rooted in small-town life. The film is directed and written by Bruce Campbell, who also stars in the lead role.
The main cast includes Bruce Campbell, Robin McAlpine, Cerina Vincent, Ted Raimi. The story follows Ernie Tyler, a widowed pear salesman pushed into a road trip by his late wife’s unusual final wishes.
The film is an original standalone story and not based on a book or franchise. It premieres on February 14, 2026, at the Holly Theatre in Medford, Oregon. A wider digital and limited theatrical release is expected later in 2026.
Ernie & Emma Age Rating
Ernie & Emma is rated R by the MPAA for language and some drug use. The film contains frequent strong profanity, mainly used to express grief, frustration, and emotional exhaustion. There are also brief scenes involving substance use, which appear casually rather than being central to the story.
Although the film avoids graphic violence or explicit content, its overall tone is clearly adult-focused. The narrative deals with loss, mortality, and the emotional weight of a long marriage, making it more suitable for mature audiences. Due to the heavy themes and strong language, the film is not appropriate for younger viewers and is best suited for adults and older teens.
Violence & Peril
Unlike Bruce Campbell’s famous horror roots, this film is a grounded drama and does not contain the bloody violence or gore associated with the Evil Dead franchise.
Language
The “R” rating is largely attributed to the use of strong language. As a comedy-drama dealing with the frustrations of grief, aging, and loss, characters (particularly Ernie) likely use harsh profanity (f-words) to express anger and exasperation.
Drug Use
The rating citation for “some drug use” suggests scenes involving the consumption of substances. Given the film’s tone, this could involve recreational marijuana use (legal in the film’s setting of Oregon) or the misuse of prescription medication as a coping mechanism for grief.
Mature Themes
Beyond the specific rating descriptors, the film deals heavily with mature themes of death, mortality, and the complex emotional baggage of a long-term marriage. While not “inappropriate,” these themes are geared toward an adult audience and may be boring or emotionally heavy for children.
Is Ernie & Emma Suitable for Teens?
Ages 17+: Yes. Older teens may understand the themes and emotional depth. Language and drug references still make it best suited for mature viewers.
Ages 14–16: With Guidance. The subject matter may feel slow or emotionally intense. Strong language makes parental discretion important.
Under 14: No. The film’s grief-focused narrative and adult dialogue are not age-appropriate. Younger viewers are unlikely to connect with the story or tone.
Overall recommendation: Best for adults and older teens aged 17 and up.
What Parents Can Do
- Prepare teens for strong language and frank discussions about death.
- Talk about healthy ways people cope with grief and loss.
- Discuss how humor can exist alongside sadness and healing.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Ernie & Emma (2026)?
A: Ernie & Emma is rated R for language and some drug use.
Q: Is Ernie & Emma appropriate for kids?
A: No. The film is aimed at adults and older teens due to its themes and language.
Q: Does Ernie & Emma have violence or scary scenes?
A: No. There is no violence, gore, or frightening content.
Q: How strong is the language in the film?
A: Strong profanity is used frequently, including repeated f-words.
Q: Is there any sexual content in Ernie & Emma?
A: No. There is no sexual content or nudity.
Official Website: Ernie & Emma