Pretty Lethal Parents Guide (2026) – Is This Ballet Thriller Suitable for Teens?

Pretty Lethal is a 2026 American action-thriller that blends survival horror with stylized martial-arts action.
The film is directed by Vicky Jewson and written by Jewson and Rupert Whitaker.

The cast includes Uma Thurman, Lana Condor, Maddie Ziegler, Iris Apatow, Avantika, and Millicent Simmonds. The story follows a competitive ballet troupe whose trip to a major dance competition turns deadly after they become trapped at a remote inn.

The film premiered at SXSW on March 13, 2026, and streams on Amazon Prime Video starting March 25, 2026.

Pretty Lethal Age Rating

Pretty Lethal is officially rated R for strong bloody violence and language. The rating reflects frequent graphic fight scenes, close-range stabbings, and improvised weapons used during prolonged survival sequences. The tone is aggressive and relentless, with sustained tension that may be disturbing for younger viewers. This is a hard R action film rather than a stylized teen thriller.

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Pretty Lethal Parents Guide

Intensity: The atmosphere is suspenseful and claustrophobic, with several “jump scares” and moments of intense peril for the young protagonists.

Violence and Gore: As an 87North production, the action is fast-paced and visceral. Expect “bloody” results from the fight sequences, including injuries sustained from pointe shoes, glass, and other makeshift weapons. The horror elements are prominent, especially during the “cat-and-mouse” segments within the inn.

Profanity: The script contains frequent strong language, including the “F-bomb,” particularly during high-stress survival moments.

Themes: The movie explores themes of “broken dreams,” the toxic side of elite competition, and psychological manipulation. Uma Thurman’s character represents a dark reflection of the girls’ own ambitions.

Is Pretty Lethal Suitable for Teens?

Ages 13–15: No. The graphic violence, heavy language, and sustained terror make this unsuitable for younger teens.

Ages 16–17: With Guidance. Older teens familiar with intense R-rated action films may handle the content, but parental discretion is strongly advised.

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Adults 18+: Yes. This film is clearly designed for adult audiences who enjoy stylized, violent action thrillers.

Overall, Pretty Lethal is best recommended for viewers 17 and older, with strongest appeal to adults.

What Parents Can Do

Contextualize the “Ballet-Fu”: Explain to your teen that the movie uses dance as a metaphor for the discipline required in martial arts, but the violence is exaggerated for cinematic effect.

Check for “Slasher” Sensitivity: If your child is sensitive to “survival horror” (being hunted in a remote location), you may want to skip this one or watch it with them.

Discuss Competition: After the movie, you can talk about the “win at all costs” mentality often found in competitive sports and dance, which is a major underlying theme of the film.


FAQs

Q: What is the age rating for Pretty Lethal?
A: Pretty Lethal is rated R for strong bloody violence, pervasive language, and intense peril.

Q: Is Pretty Lethal appropriate for kids or teens?
A: No, the film is not suitable for children and is only recommended for older teens with guidance.

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Q: Are there scary or violent scenes?
A: Yes, the film contains frequent graphic fight scenes and sustained survival-horror tension.

Q: Does the movie contain strong language?
A: Yes, strong profanity is used throughout the film.

Q: Is there sexual content or nudity?
A: There is no nudity, but the film’s tone and violence are very mature.

Q: Where can I watch Pretty Lethal?
A: The film streams on Amazon Prime Video starting March 25, 2026.

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