The Christophers is a 2026 American black comedy caper directed by Steven Soderbergh and written by Ed Solomon. The film stars Ian McKellen, James Corden, Jessica Gunning, and Michaela Coel.
Set in the high-stakes art world, the story follows an aging painter whose greedy children hire a secret forger to complete his final masterpiece series before he dies.
As loyalties shift, the plan grows complicated. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2025 and is scheduled for limited theatrical release by Neon on April 10, 2026.
The Christophers Age Rating
The Christophers is officially rated R for language. The MPAA rating is based mainly on frequent strong profanity throughout the film. While the story contains little physical violence or sexual content, the dialogue includes repeated use of the f-word and other coarse expressions. The tone is adult and cynical, centered on inheritance disputes and moral gray areas in the art world. Parents should understand that the rating reflects strong language rather than graphic scenes.
Violence & Peril
Violence in the film is mild and mostly verbal. There are heated arguments, emotional confrontations, and tense moments involving deception. No graphic violence or physical fights are shown. The danger comes from financial schemes and betrayal rather than physical harm.
Language
Strong language is frequent and pervasive. Characters use repeated f-bombs and other profanity during arguments and stressful situations. Much of the dialogue is sharp, sarcastic, and adult in tone. There are no reported racial slurs, but the language alone supports the R rating.
Mature Themes
The film explores greed, inheritance conflict, deception, and artistic authenticity. These themes are mature but handled in a dark comedic style. There is brief alcohol use, including wine and spirits during social scenes. Sexual content is minimal, limited to light suggestive references and adult banter without nudity.
Is The Christophers Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–14: No. The strong language and adult themes make this unsuitable for younger teens. The dialogue-driven story may also feel slow or confusing.
Ages 15–17: With Guidance. Older teens who are comfortable with strong profanity may handle the film. Parents should be aware of the frequent coarse language.
18+: Yes. The film is clearly designed for adult audiences who enjoy witty, dialogue-heavy capers.
Overall, The Christophers is best suited for mature teens 16 and older, but primarily adults.
What Parents Can Do
- Discuss the difference between artistic authenticity and forgery before watching.
- Prepare teens for strong language and explain why it drives the R rating.
- Talk after the film about greed, legacy, and family conflict themes.
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for The Christophers (2026)?
A: The Christophers is rated R for language, mainly due to frequent strong profanity.
Q: Is The Christophers appropriate for kids?
A: No. The strong language and adult themes make it unsuitable for children.
Q: Does The Christophers contain violence?
A: Violence is minimal and non-graphic. Most conflict is verbal and psychological.
Q: Is there strong language in The Christophers?
A: Yes. The film includes frequent use of the f-word and other profanity.
Q: Does the movie include sexual content or nudity?
A: There is no nudity and very little sexual content, only mild adult references.
Q: Where can I watch The Christophers?
A: The film will have a limited theatrical release starting April 10, 2026, distributed by Neon.