Atropia is a 2025 American war satire and dark comedy. The film blends absurdist humor with political commentary. It is written and directed by Hailey Gates in her feature-length debut and produced by Luca Guadagnino.
The cast includes Alia Shawkat, Callum Turner, Chloë Sevigny, Tim Heidecker, Jane Levy, Lola Kirke, and a surprise cameo by Channing Tatum. The story takes place inside a simulated military training country called Atropia.
Fayruz, a struggling actress, plays an Iraqi civilian in realistic war drills. Her dedication to the role blurs reality when she falls for a soldier playing an insurgent. The film critiques war as performance and the machinery behind it.
Atropia premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, where it won the U.S. Grand Jury Prize: Dramatic. Vertical released it theatrically on December 12, 2025.
Atropia Age Rating
Atropia is rated R by the MPAA for strong language and sexual material. This rating reflects frequent profanity, adult conversations, and mature satire centered on war, identity, and exploitation. While violence is limited and non-graphic, the film’s tone and language firmly place it in adult territory.
Violence & Peril
Violence in Atropia is mild and mostly simulated. Characters participate in staged military drills involving mock gunfire, explosions, and interrogations. There is no graphic injury or gore. The tension comes from realism and psychological pressure rather than physical harm.
Language
Language is the strongest content concern. The film contains frequent and harsh profanity throughout. Sexual language, insults, and crude dialogue are common, reflecting the film’s satirical tone. The profanity alone makes the movie inappropriate for younger viewers.
Mature Themes
The film explores heavy themes including war as performance, cultural exploitation, identity, and power dynamics. Sexual material is mild but present, including adult conversations and implied intimacy. Alcohol use appears regularly, with some smoking. These elements are treated casually and without moral framing.
Is Atropia Suitable for Teens?
Ages 12–14: Not suitable. The strong language and adult themes are inappropriate for this age group.
Ages 15–16: Not recommended. Even mature teens may struggle with the profanity, sexual references, and abstract satire.
Ages 17+: With guidance. Older teens may engage with the film’s themes, but parental discussion is advised.
Overall recommendation: Best suited for adults and viewers 18 and older.
What Parents Can Do
- Explain the film’s satirical approach and how it critiques real-world military systems.
- Prepare teens for frequent profanity and adult dialogue before viewing.
- Discuss how media and performance can shape perceptions of war and culture.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Atropia?
A: Atropia is rated R for strong language and sexual material.
Q: Is Atropia appropriate for kids or teens?
A: No. It is intended for adults and is not suitable for most teens.
Q: Does Atropia contain violence?
A: Yes, but it is mild and non-graphic, mostly within staged military simulations.
Q: How strong is the language in Atropia?
A: The film contains severe and frequent profanity throughout.
Q: Is there sexual content in the film?
A: There is mild sexual material, including adult conversations and implied intimacy.
Q: Where can I watch Atropia?
A: The film opened in theaters on December 12, 2025, with streaming expected in early 2026.