Blue Moon is a 2025 biographical musical directed by Richard Linklater and written by Robert Kaplow, centering on the complex life of legendary songwriter Lorenz Hart.
Set largely during one critical night — March 31, 1943, the opening of Oklahoma! — the film follows Hart’s inner turmoil as he battles alcoholism, depression, and heartbreak while his longtime creative partner, Richard Rodgers, embarks on a new collaboration with Oscar Hammerstein II.
The film stars Ethan Hawke as Lorenz Hart, with standout performances from Margaret Qualley, Bobby Cannavale, and Andrew Scott (who won the Silver Bear for Best Supporting Performance at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival).
A raw, emotional portrait of genius and decline, Blue Moon is powerful — but decidedly adult — material.
Blue Moon will be released in 2025 and is rated R for language and sexual references.
Blue Moon Age Rating
Blue Moon is rated R for strong language, sexual references, substance abuse, and emotionally intense scenes. The R rating indicates the film is restricted to viewers 17 years and older unless accompanied by an adult. Below is a detailed content breakdown for parents:
Sexual Content
The film features severe sexual references throughout conversations, some alluding to Lorenz Hart’s sexuality and troubled romantic life. While no explicit sexual acts are shown, dialogue and situational content are adult-themed and frequent.
Violence & Gore
There are scenes of emotional and psychological self-destruction. Hart’s behavior becomes erratic and self-harming under the influence of alcohol. While there is no graphic physical violence toward others, the depiction of self-destructive behavior is emotionally intense and distressing.
Language
Profanity is present but mild compared to the film’s heavier thematic elements. Expect occasional use of strong language including terms like “damn” and “hell,” but it’s the mature themes that dominate rather than pervasive vulgarity.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
Substance abuse is a central theme. Hart is frequently shown drinking heavily, often spiraling into drunken stupors. The portrayal of alcoholism is realistic, relentless, and not glamorized, making it an important but intense element of the story.
Frightening & Intense Scenes
Several scenes depict Hart in extreme emotional distress, depression, and disorientation. His feelings of abandonment, failure, and isolation are portrayed vividly, contributing to a heavy, sorrowful atmosphere that may be overwhelming for sensitive viewers.
Is Blue Moon Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10-12: The film’s severe depiction of substance abuse, sexual references, and emotional breakdowns makes it entirely inappropriate for this age group.
Ages 13-17: Even mature teens may find Blue Moon‘s exploration of addiction, despair, and sexuality too heavy. Due to its R rating and intense adult themes, it is best reserved for adult audiences or older teens (17+) with parental guidance and preparation.
Blue Moon is an emotional, artistic portrayal of a troubled life, but it’s intended for adults or mature older teens who can handle its tragic and intense material.
What Parents Can Do
Watch the Trailer: Preview the trailer to gauge whether your teen can emotionally handle the intense themes of addiction, loneliness, and depression.
Discuss Mental Health: The film offers a raw look at struggles with mental illness and addiction, creating an opportunity for important conversations about emotional wellbeing.
Monitor Sensitivity Levels: If your teen is sensitive to depictions of addiction, depression, or themes of self-destruction, it’s advised to either skip the film or watch together with open discussions afterward.
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Blue Moon?
A: The film is rated R for language, sexual references, and intense thematic material.
Q: Is Blue Moon violent?
A: There is no graphic physical violence, but the emotional violence — self-harm, substance abuse, and psychological breakdowns — is intense and disturbing.
Q: Does Blue Moon contain sexual content?
A: Yes, there are strong sexual references throughout, although no explicit sexual scenes are shown.
Q: Is Blue Moon appropriate for teens?
A: It is not recommended for anyone under 17 without parental accompaniment due to mature, emotionally heavy themes.
Q: Who stars in Blue Moon?
A: Ethan Hawke stars as Lorenz Hart, alongside Margaret Qualley, Bobby Cannavale, and Andrew Scott.