The Dutchman (2025) is a United States psychological thriller. It is directed by Andre Gaines, who co-wrote the screenplay with Qasim Basir. The film stars André Holland, Kate Mara, Zazie Beetz, Stephen McKinley Henderson, and Aldis Hodge.
It is a modern adaptation of the influential and provocative 1964 Obie Award-winning one-act play Dutchman by Amiri Baraka (then known as LeRoi Jones). The original play was a stark allegory exploring racial tensions and power dynamics in the Civil Rights era, and the film updates these themes for a contemporary audience, focusing on issues of identity and the cyclical nature of societal pressures.
The film premiered at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film & TV Festival in March 2025 and is scheduled for a United States theatrical release on January 2, 2026.
The Dutchman Age Rating
The Dutchman is rated R by the MPAA for sexual content, language, and brief violence. This MPAA R rating signals adult material that may be unsuitable for viewers under 17 without an accompanying adult.
Violence & Peril
Violence is limited but effective. The film contains brief scenes of physical struggle and a tense, threatening atmosphere. Harm is usually implied rather than graphic, but moments of sudden peril create real suspense. The tension builds from psychological menace more than repeated gore.
Language
Strong language appears throughout the film. Occasional profanity and adult expressions are used in emotional confrontations. There are no indications the film centers on slurs, but heated racial and identity debates include sharp, mature dialogue. Language is character-driven and meant to unsettle.
Mature Themes
The Dutchman tackles race, identity, infidelity, and psychological manipulation. Sexual content and a sexually-charged power dynamic are central to the plot. The film also explores existential dread and marital collapse, which may upset sensitive viewers. Smoking or substance use may be present as contextual elements.
Is The Dutchman Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. The material is adult. Sexual content and complex racial themes are inappropriate for preteens.
Ages 13–15: With guidance. Mature teens may follow the plot, but sexual scenes and psychological menace require parental discussion. Parents should screen first.
Ages 16–17: With caution. Older teens may handle themes if guided and prepared. Recommend a pre-view and a post-film conversation about race, power, and consent.
Final recommendation: The film is best for adults and older teens (16+) only with parental guidance.
What Parents Can Do
- Watch first: preview the film to judge tone and specific scenes.
- Prepare to discuss: talk about race, power dynamics, and consent before and after viewing.
- Focus on context: explain the play’s origins and why the film updates those ideas for today.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the MPAA rating for The Dutchman?
A: The Dutchman is rated R for sexual content, language, and brief violence.
Q: Is The Dutchman appropriate for kids or younger teens?
A: No. The film contains sexual material and mature themes that are not suitable for young viewers.
Q: Are there scary or violent scenes?
A: The film has tense, frightening moments and brief physical struggle. It is suspenseful rather than gory.
Q: Does the film contain strong language or slurs?
A: Yes. Strong profanity appears. The film includes heated racial discussions, presented for dramatic effect.
Q: How explicit is the sexual content?
A: Sexual content is prominent and psychologically charged. Scenes are intended for mature viewers.
Q: Where will The Dutchman be released?
A: The Dutchman premiered at SXSW in March 2025 and opens in U.S. theaters on January 2, 2026.