The Astronaut (2025) is an American science fiction horror-thriller directed and written by Jess Varley in her feature debut.
The film stars Kate Mara, Laurence Fishburne, Gabriel Luna, and Ivana Miličević. It follows Captain Sam Walker (Kate Mara), a NASA astronaut who survives a shuttle crash but faces terrifying and unexplained phenomena during quarantine.
As paranoia and supernatural occurrences intensify, Sam fears something extraterrestrial has returned with her. The film premiered at SXSW in March 2025 and releases theatrically in the U.S. on October 17, 2025 via Vertical.
The Astronaut Age Rating
The Astronaut is rated BBFC 15 in the UK, signaling it is unsuitable for children under 15 due to strong themes, intense threat, and horror elements. Although a US MPAA rating is not confirmed, the content suggests it would likely receive PG-13, mainly for horror intensity, disturbing imagery, and psychological tension.
Violence & Peril
Violence in The Astronaut is moderate and primarily psychological rather than gory. Disturbing incidents include mysterious bruises, hallucinations, and unsettling behavior that create tension and fear. There are moments of implied physical danger, but actual graphic violence is minimal. The suspenseful atmosphere and body horror elements amplify the horror without relying on overt gore.
Language
Language is relatively mild. Characters may use occasional strong terms or military-style commands, but explicit profanity is limited. There are no racial slurs noted, and dialogue focuses on psychological intensity, fear, and tension rather than overtly offensive speech.
Mature Themes
The film addresses several mature themes suitable for older teens and adults. These include psychological trauma, paranoia, isolation, and extraterrestrial influence. The story also explores family dynamics, authority, and trust in extreme circumstances. There are suggestive references related to fear, stress, and hallucinations, but no sexual content, nudity, or substance use.
Is The Astronaut Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. The psychological intensity, horror elements, and unsettling imagery make the film inappropriate for preteens.
Ages 13–16: With guidance. Mature teens may handle the suspense and thematic tension, but parents should explain the psychological horror and discuss fear responses.
Ages 17+: Yes. Older teens and adults can likely watch with context, appreciating the suspense, mystery, and science-fiction elements.
Final Recommendation: The film is best suited for teens 15+ and adults due to its horror, tension, and mature psychological themes.
What Parents Can Do
- Pre-screen for scare factor: Watch the film first to gauge the intensity of suspense and psychological horror.
- Discuss fear vs. reality: Prepare teens for hallucinations and paranoia in the story, and help them separate fiction from reality.
- Talk about ethical dilemmas: Explore themes like authority, isolation, and trust, encouraging reflection on character decisions.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is The Astronaut rated and why?
A: It is rated BBFC 15 in the UK due to intense horror, psychological tension, and mature themes.
Q: Is The Astronaut appropriate for teens?
A: Teens 15+ may watch with guidance; younger teens and preteens are not recommended due to disturbing imagery.
Q: Are there violent or scary scenes?
A: Yes. The film contains psychological horror, suspense, and disturbing hallucinations, but minimal graphic violence.
Q: Does the film have strong language or racial slurs?
A: Language is limited and not offensive, with no racial slurs. The focus is on tension and fear.
Q: Is there sexual content or nudity?
A: No sexual content or nudity is present. The film focuses on psychological and sci-fi horror elements.
Q: Where can I watch The Astronaut?
A: The film releases theatrically in the U.S. on October 17, 2025 through Vertical, with streaming details pending.