Americana is a gritty American crime thriller directed by Tony Tost in his feature debut. The film stars Sydney Sweeney, Paul Walter Hauser, pop star Halsey, Eric Dane, Zahn McClarnon, and Simon Rex.
Set against a raw Western backdrop, the story intertwines several characters whose fates collide in a deadly struggle over a rare and symbolic Native American artifact—a “ghost shirt” believed to hold great power.
Premiering at South by Southwest in March 2023, Americana is finally set for public release on August 22, 2025.
With its stylized violence, emotional intensity, and ensemble drama, the film explores themes of greed, survival, and cultural exploitation. It is rated R and contains several elements that warrant parental caution.
Americana Age Rating
Americana is rated R by the MPA for violence, language throughout, and some sexual references. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the content:
Violence
The film features stylized but occasionally graphic violence, including shootouts, physical altercations, and scenes of threat. While not constant, moments of violence are sudden and emotionally charged. The story’s central conflict revolves around betrayal and survival, which adds a layer of psychological intensity to the physical action.
Language
Coarse language is used frequently, including multiple uses of strong profanity such as the f-word and other explicit terms. The language reflects the rough, lawless tone of the characters and their environment.
Sexual Content
Sexual references appear in dialogue, but there are no graphic sex scenes or explicit nudity. Some flirtation and innuendo may be present, and mature relationships are referenced casually throughout the film.
Mature Themes
Themes of greed, identity, cultural appropriation, and the mythologizing of violence permeate the narrative. Characters are morally ambiguous, and the story unfolds in a gray zone of ethical choices. There are intense emotional scenes involving betrayal, addiction, and desperation.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
Drug use is prominent, including scenes of characters using illegal substances. Alcohol abuse and smoking are also depicted frequently, often without consequences. Substance abuse is a major theme tied to certain characters’ arcs.
Frightening & Intense Scenes
The overall tone is heavy and tense. Some scenes are emotionally unsettling, with characters facing traumatic choices. Intensity is sustained through both narrative and visual style, which may be overwhelming for younger viewers.
Is Americana Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. Due to the mature subject matter, drug use, language, and intense emotional tone, this film is not appropriate for tweens. The themes are adult-oriented and could be distressing or confusing for pre-teens.
Ages 13–16: Not recommended. Even older teens may find Americana too intense. While some may be drawn by the cast or premise, the film’s persistent drug use, moral complexity, and emotional gravity make it more appropriate for mature adults. Teen viewers may struggle with the heavy tone and blurred lines of right and wrong.
Americana is best suited for adult audiences over 17. It is a dark, character-driven thriller with mature content that is likely to be inappropriate or unsettling for teens.
What Parents Can Do
Preview the Film: Parents should consider screening the movie in advance to assess whether its style and themes are appropriate for older teens in their household.
Discuss the Real-World Issues: If older teens are permitted to watch, use the film as a springboard to talk about addiction, identity, and cultural history.
Set Context Around Drug Use: Emphasize the fictional nature of the story and help teens understand the real-world consequences of substance abuse.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: Why is Americana Rated R?
A: Americana is rated R for violence, language throughout, and some sexual references.
Q: Is Americana appropriate for kids or teens?
A: No. The film is best suited for adult viewers and is not recommended for anyone under 17 due to its mature themes and drug-related content.
Q: Does Americana contain graphic violence?
A: While not constant, the film includes stylized violence, shootouts, and emotionally intense scenes that may disturb younger audiences.
Q: Is there nudity or sexual content?
A: There are sexual references and adult themes, but no explicit nudity or graphic sex scenes.
Q: Does the film depict drug or alcohol use?
A: Yes. Drug use and addiction are prominent in the film, along with alcohol consumption and smoking.
Q: Where can I watch Americana?
A: The film is scheduled for release on August 22, 2025, in theaters.