Leviathan is a 2025 Japanese animated sci-fi action series set to premiere globally on Netflix on July 10, 2025. Based on the bestselling young adult book trilogy by Scott Westerfeld and illustrated by Keith Thompson, this anime reimagines the events of World War I with a steampunk twist.
The story centers around Prince Aleksandar von Hohenberg, a fugitive noble traveling in a giant walker machine after the assassination of his parents, and Deryn Sharp, a girl disguised as a boy to serve in the British air force aboard the HMS Leviathan, a massive flying creature engineered for war. When their worlds collide, their actions could shape the fate of an entire global conflict.
Produced by Studio Orange (BEASTARS, Trigun Stampede) and Qubic Pictures, and directed by Christophe Ferreira, the series promises intense action, stunning visuals, and emotional storytelling. With music by Nobuko Toda and Kazuma Jinnouchi, and original songs by Joe Hisaishi, the show offers both spectacle and soul.
Leviathan Age Rating
Leviathan is rated TV-14 for intense action violence, war themes, and suggestive material, making it best suited for older teens and up. The content may not be suitable for viewers under 14 years of age. Below is a spoiler-free content breakdown to help guide families and teen viewers:
Violence & Peril
The show features animated but intense battle scenes involving war machines, massive creatures, and airship combat. There are explosions, destruction, and moments of real danger. Some characters face life-threatening situations, and there are implied deaths. While not gory, mild blood or injury may be shown in certain episodes.
Language
There may be moderate language, especially in high-stress or combat scenes. Strong exclamations or wartime slang may be used occasionally.
Suggestive Content
The series includes mild romantic tension between characters. Deryn’s disguise as a boy leads to some gender-related misunderstandings, but there is no nudity or explicit sexual content. Occasional fan service or suggestive humor could appear but is expected to be mild.
Mature Themes
The anime deals with war, political intrigue, death, survival, and identity. These are mature but thoughtfully handled themes. Some episodes may explore loss or moral dilemmas that younger viewers may find hard to fully understand.
Is Leviathan Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not recommended: The wartime setting, intense battles, and emotional themes may be overwhelming or too complex for tweens. Even though it’s animated, the tone is mature and can be frightening at times.
Ages 13–17: Suitable with guidance: Teens who enjoy science fiction, action, or alternate history may find Leviathan exciting and thought-provoking. However, sensitive viewers should be aware of the darker war themes and occasional intensity.
This show is best for teens who are comfortable with complex stories and animated violence. It is not aimed at young children.
Tips for Parents
Watch Together: Consider previewing the first episode or watching as a family. It can spark interesting discussions on history, war, and ethics.
Talk About the Themes: After watching, discuss the differences between fictional and real-world war, and how characters deal with fear, loyalty, and identity.
Check Comfort Levels: If your teen is sensitive to animated violence or emotionally heavy themes, keep an eye on their reaction during the more intense scenes.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Leviathan?
A: The anime is rated TV-14 for action violence, suggestive material, and mature themes.
Q: Is Leviathan appropriate for younger children?
A: No. Due to war violence and emotional intensity, it’s not suitable for children under 13.
Q: Does Leviathan have graphic content?
A: While not graphic by adult standards, it does contain intense war scenes and may show minor blood or injuries.
Q: Is there any romance or sexual content?
A: There’s mild romantic tension but no nudity or explicit sexual scenes.
Q: Where can I watch Leviathan?
A: Leviathan premieres worldwide on Netflix on July 10, 2025.