Normal is a 2025 US–Canada crime thriller directed by Ben Wheatley and written by Derek Kolstad, from a story by Kolstad and Bob Odenkirk.
It stars Bob Odenkirk, Henry Winkler, Lena Headey, Ryan Allen, Billy MacLellan, Brendan Fletcher, Peter Shinkoda, and Jess McLeod.
The plot follows a provisional small-town sheriff who probes a bank robbery and uncovers a deeper criminal conspiracy. The film will world premiere in TIFF’s Midnight Madness program on September 7, 2025.
Normal Age Rating
The film Normal is rated R “for strong bloody violence and language.” This signals frequent, intense violence with blood detail and sustained strong profanity. No other content descriptors are listed by the ratings board at this time. Parents should expect hard-hitting action, injury detail, and tense confrontation typical of adult crime thrillers.
Violence & Peril
Violence is expected to be strong with bloody outcomes tied to crime and law-enforcement clashes. Scenes may include gunfire, close-quarters fights, and visible injuries. The tone leans gritty, with persistent peril and escalating stakes as the investigation widens.
Language
Frequent strong profanity appears throughout, including repeated use of the strongest terms during arguments and high-stress moments. This aligns with the rating’s language descriptor.
Mature Themes
Themes include corruption, small-town criminal networks, and abuse of power. Expect moral ambiguity, intimidation, and fear. No sexual content is indicated by the ratings board; substance use is not referenced at this time.
Is Normal Suitable for Teens?
Ages 12 and under: No. The intensity, blood, and language are adult-level and unsuitable.
Ages 13–15: With Guidance. Mature mid-teens who handle violent thrillers may watch with parental context about crime and moral choices.
Ages 16–17: Yes, with discretion. The R-level violence and profanity are still strong; discuss realism versus genre stylization.
Bottom line: Best for 16+ who are comfortable with bloody action and strong language.
What Parents Can Do
Set expectations for realism. Explain how crime-thriller violence differs from fantasy action and why the film is rated R.
Discuss authority and trust. Talk about how power can be misused in tight-knit communities, and why whistleblowers face risk.
Coach media literacy. Encourage teens to separate cinematic intensity from real-world norms and to process tough scenes.
FAQs
1) What is Normal rated and why?
It’s rated R for strong bloody violence, and language.
2) Is Normal appropriate for teens?
Usually 16+ with guidance; intensity and profanity are significant.
3) How violent or scary is it?
Expect frequent, bloody action and sustained peril consistent with the rating.
4) How much strong language is there?
The rating flags language, so strong profanity occurs repeatedly.
5) Any sexual content or drug use?
Not indicated by the ratings board at this time; focus is on violence and language.
6) When and where can I watch it?
World premiere: TIFF Midnight Madness on September 7, 2025; wider release and streaming plans vary by territory after festival launch.