Turbulence (2025) is a U.S. action-thriller set almost entirely in a hot-air balloon over the Italian Dolomites. It is directed by Claudio Fäh and written by Andy Mayson.
The story centers on a young married couple, Emmy (Hera Hilmar) and Zach (Jeremy Irvine), who embark on a romantic and scenic journey over the stunning Italian Dolomites via hot air balloon, hoping to revitalize their relationship.
The romantic idyll is shattered by the arrival of an unexpected third passenger, a menacing figure referred to as “The Stranger” (Kelsey Grammer). As the trip progresses, it morphs from a peaceful excursion into a brutal, claustrophobic battle for survival.
Dark and dangerous secrets concerning Zach’s past are exposed, escalating the tension. The confined, high-altitude setting becomes the stage for both a lethal psychological confrontation and a desperate physical fight against the antagonist and the escalating dangers posed by nature. The film promises a gripping blend of suspense and action, trapping the characters—and the audience—in a perilous situation high above the world.
Turbulence Age Rating
Turbulence is rated R by the MPAA for bloody violence, suicide, and language. This R rating signals mature content and scenes parents should expect to be intense, emotionally upsetting, and explicitly violent in places. The film’s trailer and publicity describe brutal, confined violence and some graphic imagery, along with strong profanity and a suicide-related element.
Violence & Peril
Violence in Turbulence is strong and often close-up because the action plays out in the tiny balloon basket. Expect bloody injuries, direct physical attacks, and tense, brutal hand-to-hand confrontations. The setting raises the stakes: isolation, height, and a small escape route make fights feel claustrophobic and relentless. There is also an element of suicidal action or suicide-related content reported in publicity, which can be emotionally triggering.
Language
Language in the film is frequently strong and includes repeated expletives. Profanity is used during high-tension scenes and confrontations. The dialogue leans adult and blunt, which adds to the film’s harsh tone. Parents should expect frequent strong language throughout.
Mature Themes
Mature themes include attempted murder, survival trauma, relationship betrayal, and suicide-related material. The couple’s strained marriage and Zach’s hidden past drive the psychological pressure. The confined survival scenario heightens fear, panic, and moral choices under threat. There is no prominent sexual content listed in publicity materials; the film centers on violence and psychological threat rather than erotic scenes.
Is Turbulence Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. The R rating and the film’s blood, close-quarters violence, and suicide-related content are not appropriate for preteens. The intensity and subject matter may be traumatic.
Ages 13–15: Not recommended. Scenes of bloody violence and high psychological tension are likely too mature for most mid-teens. If a parent is considering it, pre-screening is essential.
Ages 16–17: With guidance. Older teens may handle the thriller aspects, but parents should discuss the suicide-related elements and violence beforehand. We advise parents to watch first and decide based on the teen’s maturity.
Final recommendation: Turbulence is best reserved for adults and mature older teens only, and only when parents have previewed the film or are present for discussion.
What Parents Can Do
- Pre-screen the film yourself to judge if your teen can handle intense, bloody violence and suicide-related content.
- Talk before viewing about safety, panic responses, and that the film’s extreme scenario is fictional and heightened for drama.
- After viewing, check in about feelings, especially if a teen seemed upset. Use it to discuss coping, help-seeking, and what to do when hearing about suicide in real life.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is Turbulence rated and why?
A: Turbulence is rated R for bloody violence, suicide, and language. The R rating reflects explicit physical harm and mature themes.
Q: Is Turbulence appropriate for teens?
A: Generally no for younger teens. Older teens may watch with parental guidance after a parent previews the film.
Q: How graphic is the violence?
A: The violence is close-up and bloody in parts, intensified by the cramped balloon setting. Expect realistic injuries and tense fight scenes.
Q: Does the film include suicide content?
A: Publicity and the MPAA reasons list suicide-related content, which may be emotionally disturbing to viewers. Parents should be aware and prepared to discuss it.
Q: Is there sexual content or nudity?
A: Public materials emphasize violence and psychological threat. No prominent sexual content or nudity is listed in official publicity.
Q: Where and when can I watch Turbulence?
A: Lionsgate releases Turbulence in select theaters and on digital platforms on December 12, 2025.