Bambi: The Reckoning is a 2025 British horror film directed by Dan Allen and produced by Scott Jeffrey. It reimagines the beloved deer from Felix Salten’s story as a terrifying monster. The film stars Roxanne McKee as Xana and Tom Mulheron as her young son Benji.
After a car accident, Xana and Benji are stranded in the woods, only to find themselves hunted by a grief-crazed, mutated version of Bambi. What follows is a deadly game of survival as the once-lovable fawn becomes a nightmare creature on a violent rampage.
This film is part of the Twisted Childhood Universe (TCU)—a horror franchise that reimagines public domain childhood characters as killers. Bambi: The Reckoning follows in the footsteps of Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey and leads into future films like Pinocchio: Unstrung and Poohniverse: Monsters Assemble.
Bambi: The Reckoning is scheduled to hit theaters in the U.S. on July 25, 2025. Tickets go on sale July 10.
Bambi: The Reckoning Age Rating
While the official MPAA rating is pending, Bambi: The Reckoning is widely expected to receive an R rating for strong horror violence and gore based on its disturbing plot, violent content, and promotional materials. Below is a spoiler-free breakdown of the film’s content:
Violence & Peril
The movie features intense horror violence, including graphic gore, gruesome deaths, and terrifying creature attacks. The twisted version of Bambi brutally hunts characters through the woods, and there are multiple scenes of bloodshed. The tone is dark, violent, and unforgiving, designed to shock and scare.
Language
Strong language is expected throughout, including frequent use of profanity in high-stress scenes. Swearing adds to the tension and fear, reflecting the dangerous situation the characters are in.
Mature Themes
The film explores themes of grief, revenge, and child endangerment. Bambi’s transformation into a monster is rooted in the trauma of his mother’s death. There are scenes involving fear, desperation, and survival, which may be disturbing for sensitive viewers.
Is Bambi: The Reckoning Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not Suitable: This movie is far too violent and frightening for pre-teens. The horror elements are intense and not appropriate for this age group.
Ages 13–17: Not Recommended: Even older teens may find the film disturbing. The gore, creature horror, and dark tone are more in line with adult horror films. Teens sensitive to violence or jump scares should skip this one.
Verdict: Bambi: The Reckoning is meant for adult audiences. It is not a teen-friendly film despite the familiar name. The character may be from childhood stories, but this version is a full-blown horror monster.
What Parents Should Know
Preview If Unsure: If you’re considering letting an older teen watch, view it yourself first to understand the level of violence.
Talk About Horror vs. Childhood Icons: The film uses a beloved character in a terrifying way—some kids and teens may find this deeply unsettling. Discuss the use of public domain characters in horror.
Set Clear Viewing Limits: Avoid casual family viewing. This is not a movie for nostalgia or laughs—it’s horror through and through.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Bambi: The Reckoning?
A: The film is expected to be rated R for strong horror violence and gore.
Q: Is Bambi: The Reckoning appropriate for teens?
A: No. The film is very violent and intense, making it unsuitable for most teens.
Q: Is there graphic violence in the movie?
A: Yes. The film includes brutal scenes with blood, gore, and creature attacks.
Q: Does the movie have sexual content?
A: No. The focus is on horror and violence, not sexual content.
Q: When is Bambi: The Reckoning coming out?
A: It releases in theaters in the U.S. on July 25, 2025, with tickets available starting July 10.