I Wish You All the Best (2024) is an American coming-of-age drama. It is written, directed, and produced by Tommy Dorfman.
The film stars Corey Fogelmanis, Alexandra Daddario, Cole Sprouse, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, and Lena Dunham. The story follows Ben DeBacker, a non-binary high-school junior kicked out by their parents, who moves in with an estranged sister and learns to find community and self-acceptance.
The film premiered at South by Southwest on March 8, 2024, and is scheduled for a U.S. theatrical release on November 7, 2025.
I Wish You All the Best Age Rating
I Wish You All the Best is rated R for language, sexual content, and teen drug and alcohol use, which signals mature content not appropriate for younger children. In addition to the MPAA R rating, parents should expect a film that addresses teen mental health, identity questions, and relationship issues in frank terms.
Violence & Peril
Violence is minimal and non-graphic. There are no extended violent set pieces or gore. The film’s moments of peril are emotional rather than physical. Tension comes from family conflict, social rejection, and scenes of anxiety and panic.
Language
Language includes frequent profanity and mature sexual references. Expect several uses of strong swear words in heated scenes. Dialogue is aimed at older teens and adults, and it treats sexuality and identity with frankness. There are no repeated racial-slur driven scenes noted in promotional materials.
Mature Themes
The film explores non-binary identity, rejection by family, anxiety, and teen substance use. Sexual content is present in the form of suggestive scenes and discussions of romantic/sexual attraction among teens. Smoking and alcohol use by teen characters are depicted and play into realistic coming-of-age situations. Mental health topics — including anxiety and feelings of rejection — are central and handled with an adult level of emotional honesty.
Is I Wish You All the Best Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. This film deals with mature sexual themes, family rejection, and teen substance use. Children this age lack the context to process these topics safely.
Ages 13–15: With guidance. Mature themes and explicit language may be upsetting for younger teens. If parents choose to allow viewing, they should pre-screen and plan a follow-up discussion.
Ages 16–17: Yes, with context. Older teens can benefit from the film’s honest portrayal of queer identity and chosen family. Parental or mentor discussion about coping and resources is still recommended.
Final recommendation: Appropriate for older teens (about 16+) with parental context and conversation. Younger teens may watch only after parent preview and guided discussion.
What Parents Can Do
- Watch the film first. Previewing lets you judge tone and prepare to discuss specific scenes.
- Talk about safety, consent, and substance use. Use scenes as prompts to discuss healthy choices and support.
- Validate feelings and offer resources. If your teen relates to Ben’s experience, have hotlines, local LGBTQ+ centres, or counselling options ready.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the MPAA rating for I Wish You All the Best?
A: The film is rated R for language, sexual content, and teen drug and alcohol use.
Q: Is this film appropriate for kids or younger teens?
A: No for children. Younger teens (13–15) should only watch with parental guidance.
Q: Are there violent or scary scenes?
A: No graphic violence. The film’s intensity is emotional, not physical.
Q: How strong is the language?
A: The film uses frequent strong profanity and mature sexual references.
Q: Is there sexual content or nudity?
A: The film contains sexual content and frank discussions of attraction. It is not built around explicit nudity, but sexual themes are clear.
Q: Where and when can I watch the film?
A: It premiered at SXSW on March 8, 2024, and is scheduled for U.S. theatrical release on November 7, 2025, from Lionsgate. Check local listings for tickets.