Steve is a 2025 British drama film written by Max Porter, based on his 2023 novel Shy. Set in mid-1990s England, the story follows a single, chaotic day in the life of Steve, the headteacher of a last-chance reform school. As he battles to keep the school open and protect its students, Steve is also struggling with his own mental health challenges.
A key part of the film focuses on his relationship with Shy, a troubled teenager caught between vulnerability and self-destructive impulses. Together, their paths reveal the harsh realities and emotional weight of a system that often gives up on those who need help the most.
The film will have its world premiere in the Platform Prize section of the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival in September, followed by a limited theatrical release in the U.S. on September 19, 2025, and a global Netflix release on October 3, 2025.
Steve Age Rating
Steve is rated R for pervasive language, substance abuse, and some sexual material. Steve contains strong mature content not suitable for younger audiences. Below is a spoiler-free breakdown for parents:
Violence & Peril
The film contains emotional confrontations, moments of aggression between students, and tense situations that could feel intense for younger viewers. While physical violence is limited, the emotional stakes are high throughout.
Language
Strong and frequent profanity appears throughout the film, often used in heated arguments or moments of frustration. The language is realistic to the school setting but persistent enough to be unsuitable for younger teens.
Substance Use
Several scenes involve drug use and alcohol consumption, shown both by adults and teens. Substance abuse is a recurring theme in the story and is depicted in a realistic manner.
Sexual Material
There are a few references to sexual situations and some suggestive dialogue. These moments are not prolonged but still contribute to the R rating.
Mature Themes
The film deals heavily with mental health struggles, feelings of failure, and the pressures of working within a failing educational system. Themes of hopelessness, redemption, and personal crisis are central to the story.
Is Steve Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. The film’s language, substance abuse depictions, and mature themes are inappropriate for pre-teens.
Ages 13–15: Not recommended. Even though the violence is minimal, the persistent strong language, substance abuse, and heavy emotional tone make this a challenging watch for younger teens.
Ages 16–17: Suitable only for mature older teens who can handle realistic portrayals of mental health struggles, strong language, and substance abuse. The emotional depth may resonate with some, but the tone is heavy.
What Parents Can Do
Preview the Film: Watch first to decide if the content aligns with your teen’s maturity level.
Discuss Mental Health: Use the film as a starting point to talk about mental health challenges and support systems.
Talk About Choices: Discuss how substance abuse and self-destructive behavior affect individuals and communities.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Steve?
A: The film is rated R for pervasive language, substance abuse, and some sexual material.
Q: Is Steve appropriate for teens?
A: Not for younger teens. It may be suitable for mature viewers aged 16+ who can handle its themes and language.
Q: Does Steve have graphic violence?
A: No. While there are tense and aggressive moments, physical violence is minimal.
Q: Is there sexual content in Steve?
A: There are brief sexual references and suggestive dialogue, but no explicit scenes.
Q: Where can I watch Steve?
A: The film will be released in U.S. theaters on September 19, 2025, and will stream worldwide on Netflix from October 3, 2025.