Beast is a 2026 American action-drama set in the high-stakes world of Mixed Martial Arts. The film is directed by Tyler Atkins and written by Russell Crowe and David Frigerio. The cast includes Daniel MacPherson, Russell Crowe, Luke Hemsworth, Bren Foster, and Amy Shark.
The story follows former MMA champion Patton James, who left the cage to escape his violent past. When his younger brother is injured after getting involved with a criminal syndicate, Patton must return to fighting to save him. He teams up with his former mentor for one final, high-stakes showdown. The film is scheduled for a limited theatrical release on April 10, 2026.
Beast Age Rating
Beast is rated R by the MPA for language throughout, some violence/bloody images and sexual material/nudity. This means the film contains adult content and is not suitable for children. Viewers under 17 must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. The rating reflects frequent strong language, realistic fight violence with visible injuries, and scenes involving sexual material or partial nudity.
Violence & Peril
Violence is strong and frequent. The film centres on professional MMA fighting, with intense cage matches that include heavy strikes, submission holds, and knockouts. Injuries are visible, including blood, bruises, and swelling.
Outside the ring, criminal activity adds further danger. There are scenes of threats, assaults, and tense confrontations. The tone is gritty and realistic rather than stylised.
Language
Strong profanity is used throughout the film. Characters frequently use the f-word and other coarse language in both emotional and casual dialogue.
The language reflects the harsh world of competitive sports and crime. Parents should expect repeated use of strong and crude terms.
Mature Themes
The story explores brotherhood, redemption, crime, and personal failure. Themes of violence, debt, and moral compromise are central to the plot.
The rating also notes sexual material and nudity. This may include intimate scenes or partial nudity, though these are not the main focus. There may also be brief references to substance use typical of crime dramas.
Is Beast Suitable for Teens?
Ages 16–17: With Strong Guidance. Older teens may be able to handle the violence and language, especially if they are familiar with combat sports films. However, the strong profanity, bloody fight scenes, and sexual content make this better suited for mature viewers.
Ages 13–15: No. The realistic fight violence, criminal themes, and explicit language make this inappropriate for younger teens. The emotional intensity may also be overwhelming.
Overall recommendation: Beast is best suited for adults and mature older teens 17 and up with parental guidance.
What Parents Can Do
- Watch the trailer first to gauge the tone and level of violence before allowing teens to view it.
- Talk with teens about the difference between professional sport violence and real-life conflict.
- Discuss the film’s themes of redemption and consequences after watching together.
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Beast (2026)?
A: Beast (2026) is rated R for language throughout, some violence/bloody images, and sexual material/nudity.
Q: Is Beast appropriate for teenagers?
A: It may be suitable for mature older teens 16–17 with parental guidance, but not for younger teens.
Q: How violent is Beast?
A: The film features intense MMA fight scenes with visible injuries, blood, and realistic physical combat.
Q: Does Beast contain strong language?
A: Yes, there is frequent use of strong profanity, including repeated use of the f-word.
Q: Is there sexual content in Beast?
A: Yes, the film includes sexual material and some nudity, though it is not the primary focus.
Q: Where can you watch Beast?
A: The film is scheduled for a limited theatrical release on April 10, 2026.