An Honest Life (original title: Ett ärligt liv) is a 2025 Swedish thriller film based on the novel by Joakim Zander, directed by Mikael Marcimain and adapted from Joakim Zander’s novel by screenwriter Linn Gottfridsson. The film stars Simon Lööf, Nora Rios, and others, and will be available globally on Netflix starting July 31, 2025.
Set in the university town of Lund, the story follows Simon, a young law student who quickly grows tired of his academic path. After meeting Max during a violent protest, he’s drawn into a reckless and seductive world filled with lies, danger, and social rebellion. What starts as an exciting escape soon becomes a trap Simon can’t get out of.
With themes of youthful disillusionment, anarchism, and blurred morality, An Honest Life offers a gritty and emotionally intense viewing experience.
The film is rated TV-MA for mature content, including language, sexual situations, and criminal behavior.
An Honest Life Age Rating
TV-MA – Mature Audiences Only
Netflix has rated An Honest Life TV-MA, meaning it’s intended for adult audiences and may not be suitable for viewers under 17. Below is a detailed, spoiler-free breakdown to help parents understand why:
Violence & Peril
The film features scenes of civil unrest and violence during protests. While not overly graphic, there are tense confrontations, property damage, and emotionally charged moments. Some criminal behavior, including theft and threats, is portrayed. The danger feels real and urgent.
Language
Strong language is used throughout the film, including multiple uses of profanity in heated conversations and emotionally intense scenes.
Mature Themes
The story deals with adult topics such as radical politics, rebellion, illegal activity, romantic obsession, and personal disillusionment. There are emotionally heavy scenes involving betrayal, risk-taking, and the mental toll of living a double life. The tone is intimate and raw.
Sexual Content
There are scenes involving sexual activity and nudity, though they are not explicit or prolonged. The film contains sensual imagery that supports the story’s themes of seduction and risk.
Is An Honest Life Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. The film’s mature themes, strong language, and criminal behavior make it inappropriate for pre-teens.
Ages 13–17: Not recommended. While some older teens might be intrigued by the rebellious plot, the sensual content, complex themes, and emotionally intense tone make it better suited for adults. Parents should use caution.
An Honest Life is aimed at mature audiences who can engage with the political and emotional weight of its story. It’s best reserved for adult viewers due to its mix of sensuality, social unrest, and risky behavior.
What Parents Should Know
Preview if Concerned: If you’re unsure about your older teen watching, consider previewing it yourself.
Context Matters: Talk with teens about themes like peer pressure, risky choices, and how protests or rebellion are portrayed in media.
Discuss Healthy Boundaries: The film may glamorize certain dangerous behaviors, so it’s important to offer context and a real-world perspective.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for An Honest Life?
A: The film is rated TV-MA for mature content, including language, sexual situations, and adult themes.
Q: Is An Honest Life appropriate for teenagers?
A: No. Due to mature themes, sensual content, and strong language, it’s not recommended for viewers under 17.
Q: Is there nudity or sexual content in An Honest Life?
A: Yes. There are brief scenes with sexual content and nudity, though not graphic or excessive.
Q: Is the film violent?
A: There is some protest-related violence and tense scenes, but it’s not the film’s primary focus.
Q: Where can I watch An Honest Life?
A: An Honest Life will premiere globally on Netflix on July 31, 2025.