In Whose Name? is a new documentary about Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, set to premiere in roughly 1,000 theaters on September 19, 2025. Directed by Nico Ballesteros, the film was shot over six years and uses approximately 3,000 hours of never-before-seen footage to provide an intimate look into Ye’s life.
The documentary covers a turbulent period for the artist, including his struggles with fame, mental health, and his public downfall due to controversial statements.
The film will also feature appearances by his ex-wife, Kim Kardashian. According to producers, the documentary offers a raw and unfiltered look at the complexities of Ye’s public persona and the cultural forces that surround him.
In Whose Name? Age Rating
In Whose Name is rated R for language throughout and brief sexual material/nudity. Expect intense personal themes. The R-rated meaning is that it’s “restricted.” This means that anyone under the age of 17 is required to be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian to be admitted into a theatrical screening.
Violence & Peril
No graphic violence is indicated. Expect tense arguments, heated public moments, and emotionally charged scenes from real life. The intensity comes from conflict, notoriety, and media scrutiny, not physical harm. (Based on trailer and coverage.)
Language
Frequent strong language is the key driver of the R rating. Parents should expect repeated profanity in candid, behind-the-scenes footage.
Mature Themes
The documentary explores mental health, public controversies, political moments, and a high-profile marriage breakdown. It also touches on polarizing statements and their impact. Brief sexual material/nudity is noted by the rating descriptor.
Is In Whose Name? Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. The R-rated language and mature real-life situations are not suitable.
Ages 13–15: No / With Guidance. The content skews adult. Mature themes and strong language dominate.
Ages 16–17: With Guidance. Older teens interested in media literacy, fame, and mental health may watch with parental discussion.
Bottom line: Best for 16+ with guidance, ideal for adults.
What Parents Can Do
Set expectations: Explain that this is a raw, candid documentary, not a performance special.
Discuss tough topics: Talk about mental health, public accountability, and how media frames celebrities.
Model media literacy: Compare trailer clips and news coverage to what the film shows to spot context and bias.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for In Whose Name? and why?
A: It’s rated R for language throughout and brief sexual material/nudity.
Q: Is it appropriate for kids or younger teens?
A: No. The language and mature themes make it unsuitable for most viewers under 16.
Q: Does it have violence or scary scenes?
A: No graphic violence. Emotional intensity comes from real-life conflicts and public incidents.
Q: How strong is the language? Are there slurs?
A: The rating cites language throughout. Expect frequent strong profanity in candid moments.
Q: Is there sexual content or nudity?
A: Only brief sexual material/nudity is indicated by the rating; no extended sexual content is suggested.
Q: Where can I watch it?
A: In U.S. theaters from September 19, 2025, with a wide rollout via major chains. Streaming has not been announced yet.