Man on the Run is a 2025 British-American documentary directed by Morgan Neville, best known for 20 Feet from Stardom and Won’t You Be My Neighbor? The film features Paul McCartney and uses rare archival footage, interviews, and never-before-seen photographs by Linda McCartney.
Set in the early 1970s, the film explores McCartney’s creative rebirth after the breakup of The Beatles, charting the formation of his new band, Wings, and his journey through self-doubt, fame, and artistic resilience. Combining candid reflections with personal home videos, it paints an intimate portrait of a global icon rediscovering himself as both artist and husband.
Premiering at the Telluride Film Festival in August 2025, the film was later acquired by Amazon MGM Studios, with a limited theatrical release before streaming on Prime Video on February 25, 2026.
Man on the Run Age Rating
Man on the Run is rated PG-13 for brief strong language, thematic elements, and historical references involving drug use. The documentary is primarily suitable for teens and adults interested in music, art, and history.
Violence & Peril
The film contains no depictions of violence or peril. Emotional tension arises only through McCartney’s reflections on the breakup of The Beatles and his struggle with public scrutiny. Archival news footage may include crowd chaos or protest imagery, but it’s mild and contextually historical rather than distressing.
Language
Occasional mild to strong language appears in interviews and archival clips — including brief uses of the “f-word” and other expletives, mostly in reference to industry frustrations or emotional recollections. These moments are infrequent and not aggressive in tone.
Mature Themes
The documentary discusses adult experiences and pressures related to fame, grief, and creativity. McCartney and others reference the use of marijuana during the 1970s music scene, but no scenes depict substance abuse graphically. Themes of loss, artistic burnout, and emotional recovery are central, presented in an introspective, educational manner suitable for older teens and adults.
Is Man on the Run Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: With guidance. Younger music enthusiasts may enjoy the Beatles history, though mature topics like substance use and adult stress may require context from parents.
Ages 13–16: Yes, with mild discretion. The PG-13 content involves language and historical realism, but the tone is reflective, not explicit. It can inspire meaningful conversations about resilience, art, and creativity.
Ages 17+: Absolutely. Older teens and adults will find the film insightful and emotionally rewarding, offering valuable cultural history and creative inspiration.
Overall Recommendation: Man on the Run is appropriate for viewers 13 and older, particularly those interested in music history or biographical documentaries.
What Parents Can Do
- Watch Together: The film provides a great opportunity to introduce teens to The Beatles’ legacy and 1970s cultural history.
- Discuss Artistic Pressure: Use McCartney’s story to talk about managing stress, fame, and creativity in a healthy way.
- Contextualize the Era: Explain the cultural norms of the 1970s, including casual references to drugs and changing artistic freedoms.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Man on the Run (2025)?
A: The film is rated PG-13 for brief strong language, thematic elements, and historical references to drug use.
Q: Is Man on the Run appropriate for kids?
A: Not for young children. The themes and pacing are mature and best suited for teens and adults.
Q: Does Man on the Run include violence or disturbing scenes?
A: No. The film contains no violence, only archival footage of public events and artistic discussions.
Q: Is there any drug or alcohol content?
A: Yes, but only in brief historical context — mostly discussions of marijuana use in the 1970s music scene.
Q: Is the language strong?
A: Mild to moderate. A few expletives appear in interviews, consistent with a PG-13 documentary.
Q: Where can I watch Man on the Run?
A: The film will stream globally on Amazon Prime Video beginning February 25, 2026, following its limited theatrical release.