Queen of the Ring is an American biographical sports drama based on the life of Mildred Burke, a trailblazer in women’s professional wrestling. Directed and written by Ash Avildsen, the film is inspired by Jeff Leen’s book, The Queen of the Ring: Sex, Muscles, Diamonds, and the Making of an American Legend. It explores Burke’s rise to fame, her personal struggles, and her complex relationship with her manager and ex-husband, Billy Wolfe.
The movie premiered at the Buffalo International Film Festival on October 15, 2024, and will be released in U.S. theaters on March 7, 2025, by Sumerian Pictures.
Queen of the Ring Age Rating
The MPA rates Queen of the Ring PG-13 for violence (including domestic violence), strong language, suggestive material, and smoking. It is suitable for teens 13 and older, though parental discretion is advised due to its mature themes.
Below is a content breakdown to help parents decide if the movie is appropriate for their children.
Violence: Moderate
- Wrestling scenes depict physical aggression, including slams, punches, and chokeholds, consistent with professional wrestling.
- Domestic violence is shown, including verbal abuse and a scene where a man physically intimidates a woman.
- The emotional toll of abuse is explored through Mildred Burke’s personal struggles.
Language: Strong
- Strong profanity is used frequently, including words like “fk,” “st,” “ahole,” and “b**ch.”
- Insults and demeaning language reflect the sexist attitudes Burke faced in the male-dominated wrestling world.
Sexual Content: Mild
- Suggestive dialogue about sexual relationships and power dynamics in the wrestling industry.
- Mild romantic scenes including kissing and innuendo, but no nudity or explicit sex scenes.
Substance Use: Severe
- Frequent smoking and alcohol consumption are shown, reflecting the lifestyle of wrestlers during the time period.
- Characters are shown drinking heavily in both personal and professional settings.
Frightening & Intense Scenes: None
- While emotional and tense, the movie does not contain horror or suspenseful moments that would frighten younger viewers.
Is Queen of the Ring Suitable for Teens?
Queen of the Ring is most appropriate for teens aged 13 and older. The wrestling action, historical context, and Mildred Burke’s inspiring story offer valuable lessons about perseverance and breaking barriers, but the mature themes may require parental discussion.
✔️ Empowering message about resilience and challenging societal norms.
✔️ Realistic portrayal of female empowerment in a male-dominated world.
✘ Domestic violence, strong language, and substance use may be inappropriate for younger audiences.
What Parents Can Do
- Discuss Historical Context: Talk about gender inequality and the challenges women faced in sports.
- Address Domestic Abuse: Use the film as an opportunity to discuss healthy relationships and seeking help.
- Set Viewing Boundaries: Consider watching with younger teens to provide context for the mature themes.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Queen of the Ring?
A: It is rated PG-13 for violence (including domestic violence), strong language, suggestive material, and smoking.
Q: Is there any nudity or explicit sex in Queen of the Ring?
A: No. The film contains mild suggestive content but no nudity or explicit sexual scenes.
Q: Is the movie too intense for kids under 13?
A: Yes. The domestic violence themes, strong language, and substance use may be too mature for children under 13.
Q: Where can I watch Queen of the Ring?
A: It will be released in U.S. theaters on March 7, 2025, by Sumerian Pictures.
Q: Is Queen of the Ring a true story?
A: Yes! It’s based on the life of Mildred Burke, one of the first female wrestling champions, inspired by Jeff Leen’s biography.
Queen of the Ring is a powerful and emotional sports drama that sheds light on a pioneering female wrestler. While mature themes make it unsuitable for younger kids, it’s a meaningful and inspiring watch for teens 13 and up.