King Ivory is a 2024 crime–thriller film (wider release in 2025) written and directed by John Swab. The film stars James Badge Dale, Ben Foster, Michael Mando, Melissa Leo, and Graham Greene. It follows law enforcement, inmates, and communities caught up in fentanyl trafficking and its fallout. The movie premiered on the festival circuit in 2024 and received a U.S. theatrical release in 2025.
The story is grounded in research with law enforcement and people affected by the opioid crisis. It aims to show multiple viewpoints: cops, cartel actors, incarcerated people, and families. Critics described it as tense, gritty, and focused on fentanyl’s real-world harms.
King Ivory Age Rating
King Ivory is rated R for strong drug content throughout, violence, pervasive language, some sexual references, and graphic nudity.
This R rating signals mature content intended for adults and older teens only. The film contains repeated and explicit depictions of drug manufacture/use and its consequences, sustained coarse language, intense violent scenes, brief sexual references, and moments of explicit nudity presented in a graphic manner.
Violence & Peril
Violent scenes are realistic and sometimes intense. Expect armed confrontations, prison violence, raids, and scenes that show the physical and emotional toll of the drug trade.
Language
Pervasive strong language throughout, including frequent use of the f-word and other explicit terms in high-stress confrontations.
Drug Content & Mature Themes
Strong, sustained depiction of drug trafficking, production, and fentanyl-related scenes. Overdose, addiction, and the social consequences of the drug crisis are a central focus.
Sexual Content & Nudity
Some sexual references appear. The film includes graphic nudity in certain scenes that contribute to its adult tone.
Violence & Peril
The film contains realistic, tense violence tied to the drug trade. Expect scenes of armed confrontations, prison violence, raids, and the emotional fallout of addiction. The violence is gritty and occasionally intense, though not heavily gore-focused.
Language
Frequent strong profanity appears throughout. Characters use coarse language in high-stress scenes and confrontations. Parents should expect repeated use of the f-word and other explicit terms.
Mature Themes (drugs, addiction, trauma)
Drug production, trafficking, and opioid addiction are central. The film depicts the physiological and social effects of fentanyl, including overdose risk, criminal networks, and family breakdown. Themes of grief, moral compromise, and systemic failure are explored in a blunt, adult way.
Is King Ivory Suitable for Teens?
Ages 11–13: No. The subject matter (fentanyl trade, addiction, prison life) is too disturbing and complex for preteens.
Ages 14–16: Not recommended. Mature teens might understand some themes, but intense depictions of drug use, criminal violence, and emotional trauma make parental guidance essential.
Ages 17–18+: With guidance. Older teens who are mature and prepared to discuss addiction, public-health consequences, and criminal justice may find educational value. Still, expect disturbing scenes that could upset sensitive viewers.
Final recommendation: Best for adults. Use caution for viewers under 18.
What Parents Can Do
Watch first: Pre-screen the film to judge if content is appropriate for your teen. The movie’s tone is uncompromising and realistic.
Use it as a teaching moment: If an older teen watches, follow up with a calm conversation about addiction, how fentanyl differs from other opioids, and real-world risks. Provide factual resources rather than relying on the film alone.
Support emotional processing: Scenes about overdose, family loss, or incarceration can be upsetting. Offer space to talk, and pause the film if your child needs a break.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the official rating of King Ivory?
A: King Ivory is rated R.
Q: Why is King Ivory rated R?
A: King Ivory is rated R for strong drug content throughout, violence, pervasive language, some sexual references, and graphic nudity.
Q: Is King Ivory appropriate for teens?
A: Not for younger teens. Older teens (17–18) may watch with parental guidance due to heavy drug and violence themes.
Q: How graphic is the drug content?
A: The movie portrays fentanyl trafficking, use, and consequences in a raw, realistic way. It is intended to show the harm and human cost.
Q: Is there gore or graphic violence?
A: Violence is gritty and intense but not focused on extended gore; it is disturbing because of realism rather than explicit gore.
Q: Who stars in King Ivory?
A: Principal cast includes James Badge Dale, Ben Foster, Michael Mando, Melissa Leo, and Graham Greene.
Q: Where did King Ivory premiere?
A: It played at film festivals (Venice) in 2024 and secured U.S. distribution for November 14, 2025.