Left-Handed Girl is a 2025 Taiwanese-American drama film directed by Shih-Ching Tsou and co-written with Sean Baker. The film stars Janel Tsai, Shih-Yuan Ma, Nina Ye, Brando Huang, Akio Chen, and Xin-Yan Chao.
The story follows Shu-fen (Janel Tsai), a single mother who returns to Taipei with her two daughters, I-Ann and I-Jing, to start fresh by opening a noodle stall in a lively night market. Told largely through the eyes of young I-Jing, the narrative explores themes of family, tradition, women’s independence, and the tension between old values and modern life.
The film, which premiered at Cannes 2025, won the Gan Foundation Award for Distribution and the Grand Rail d’Or, receiving strong critical praise. Left-Handed Girl will be released in U.S. theaters on November 14, 2025, and globally on Netflix on November 28, 2025.
Left-Handed Girl Age Rating
Left-Handed Girl is rated R for sexual content and language. The R rating (Restricted) means viewers under 17 are not allowed to watch the movie in theaters without a parent or adult guardian. In short, an R-rated film is primarily intended for adults and may not be suitable for children or younger teens.
Violence & Peril
The film does not focus on physical violence. Instead, it highlights emotional tension within family life and cultural conflict. Some arguments between characters are intense but not abusive.
Sexual Content
The movie contains some sexual content and references. These scenes are not graphic, but the subject matter is mature and intended for adult audiences.
Language
The film includes several uses of strong language. While not constant, profanity is present in emotional or tense moments.
Mature Themes
The story tackles complex subjects such as:
- Gender roles and expectations in traditional families
- Struggles of single motherhood
- Intergenerational conflict
- Rebellion against cultural stigma (e.g., I-Jing being criticized for being left-handed)
- Economic hardship and survival
The film’s emotional weight and cultural themes may be challenging for younger audiences to process.
Is Left-Handed Girl Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. The mature subject matter, sexual content, and language make this film inappropriate for pre-teens.
Ages 13–15: Not recommended. While teens may understand some cultural aspects, the R rating reflects themes and content meant for adults.
Ages 16–17: Possibly appropriate for mature teens. Older teens interested in family dramas, international cinema, and social issues may find value in the story. Parents should be aware of the sexual content and language before allowing viewing.
Overall, Left-Handed Girl is best suited for adults and older teens who can engage with its themes of culture, family, and independence.
What Parents Can Do
Preview Sensitive Scenes: Parents may want to watch the film first to gauge the level of sexual content and language.
Provide Context: Explain cultural elements (like superstition about left-handedness) to help teens understand the story’s deeper meaning.
Discuss Themes: Encourage conversations about family roles, gender expectations, and resilience in the face of hardship.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Left-Handed Girl (2025)?
A: The film is rated R for sexual content and language.
Q: Is Left-Handed Girl appropriate for teens?
A: It is best suited for adults and possibly mature teens ages 16–17.
Q: Does Left-Handed Girl contain violence?
A: No. The film’s tension is emotional and cultural rather than physical.
Q: Is there sexual content in Left-Handed Girl?
A: Yes. There are some mature sexual scenes, though they are not overly graphic.
Q: Where can I watch Left-Handed Girl?
A: The film will release in select U.S. theaters on November 14, 2025, and globally on Netflix on November 28, 2025.