Whistle is an upcoming 2026 teen supernatural horror film directed by Corin Hardy (The Nun, The Hallow) and written by Owen Egerton, based on his short story. The cast includes Dafne Keen, Sophie Nélisse, Sky Yang, Jhaleil Swaby, Ali Skovbye, Percy Hynes White, Michelle Fairley, and Nick Frost.
The story follows a group of high school outcasts who stumble upon an ancient Aztec death whistle. When one of them blows it, a horrifying curse is triggered—the eerie sound summons their future deaths to come after them. As they’re hunted one by one, the group must uncover the artifact’s history before it’s too late.
Blending teen drama with supernatural horror, Whistle has been described as a mix of Final Destination, The Ring, and Donnie Darko, with chilling echoes of A Nightmare on Elm Street and It Follows.
Whistle Age Rating
Whistle is rated R for strong violent content, gore, drug content, and some language. Under 17 Requires Accompanying Parent or Adult Guardian: This is the core rule for an R-rated film. No one under the age of 17 can buy a ticket or be admitted to an R-rated movie in a theater without a parent or adult guardian (usually defined as someone 21 or older) present with them. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help parents understand what to expect:
Violence & Peril
This film contains frequent and intense horror violence. Characters are shown being attacked or killed by supernatural forces in disturbing and gory ways. Death scenes involve graphic injuries, body mutilation, and scenes designed to shock. Tension is high throughout, with jump scares and prolonged scenes of terror.
Language
There is occasional strong language, including a few uses of the f-word and other mild to moderate profanity. Language is not constant but present in emotional or tense scenes.
Drug Content
Some characters are shown using or referencing drugs, including smoking and possible hallucinogens. These scenes are brief but noticeable and contribute to the R rating.
Mature Themes
Themes include death, supernatural revenge, teenage fear, and fate. The tone is dark, eerie, and unsettling, with characters facing the psychological fear of knowing when and how they might die. There are also emotional scenes involving friendship, regret, and guilt.
Is Whistle Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. The film contains disturbing imagery, horror violence, and mature themes that are far too intense for pre-teens.
Ages 13–15: Caution strongly advised. Even though the film stars teen characters, the violent content and dread-filled tone may be too frightening or disturbing for many younger teens.
Ages 16–17: Possibly appropriate for mature teens. Older teens who enjoy horror films may be okay with the content, especially if they are familiar with other R-rated horror films like The Ring or It Follows. Still, the violence and gore should be considered before viewing.
Whistle is aimed at older teens and adult audiences who enjoy intense supernatural horror. While it features teen characters, it is not made for a young teen audience.
What Parents Can Do
Preview the Movie: If your teen is under 17, consider watching the film first to decide if the tone and visuals are suitable.
Talk About Fear and Consequences: Use the film’s themes to spark conversations about fear, peer pressure, and facing consequences.
Set Viewing Expectations: Help teens understand the difference between stylized horror and realistic fear, and set limits if they are sensitive to gore or intense suspense.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Whistle (2026)?
A: It is rated R for strong violent content, gore, drug content, and some language.
Q: Is Whistle appropriate for teens?
A: It may be too intense for younger teens. Mature teens (16+) who enjoy horror may be able to handle it, but caution is recommended.
Q: Does Whistle have graphic violence?
A: Yes. The film includes several violent and gory scenes involving supernatural deaths.
Q: Is there any sexual content?
A: No. The film does not appear to include sexual content or nudity.
Q: When will Whistle be released?
A: The film is scheduled for release in 2026, but the exact date has not yet been announced.