Shell is a 2025 American dark comedy horror film directed by Max Minghella and written by Jack Stanley. It stars Elisabeth Moss, Kate Hudson, Arian Moayed, Kaia Gerber, Elizabeth Berkley, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Ziwe, and Este Haim.
The story follows Samantha, a fading actress who enters a glossy wellness empire led by Zoe, only to uncover a monstrous truth beneath the brand’s perfection.
The film is an original work, not based on a book or franchise. Shell releases in select theaters and on digital on October 3, 2025 via Paramount’s Republic Pictures.
Shell Age Rating
Shell is rated R by the MPA for violent content, gore, sexual content, graphic nudity, and language. It is intended for mature audiences. The film blends satirical body-horror with industry commentary about beauty standards and wellness culture.
Violence & Peril
Violence is present and sometimes graphic. Expect body-horror imagery tied to cosmetic procedures and transformations. There are moments of blood and distressing surgical visuals. Suspense builds around manipulation and the threat of harm.
Language
Frequent strong language appears in arguments and tense scenes. Profanity includes harsh terms used for emphasis. No known use of hate slurs has been highlighted in early materials.
Mature Themes
Themes include ageism, exploitation, celebrity pressure, and the commodification of beauty. Sexual content and frontal nudity appear, framed within the industry satire. The wellness-industry backdrop includes invasive “treatments” and image obsession.
Is Shell Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. The R-rated body-horror imagery and adult themes are too intense.
Ages 13–15: No. Graphic nudity, gore, and strong language make this unsuitable.
Ages 16–17: With Guidance. Older teens may engage with its satire, but expect disturbing visuals and adult content. Provide context about Hollywood beauty pressures.
Final recommendation: Best for 17+ and adults due to intensity and mature content.
What Parents Can Do
Set expectations. Explain that the film uses body horror to critique beauty culture and ageism.
Discuss boundaries. Talk about informed consent, risky “wellness” trends, and manipulation in influencer spaces.
Debrief after viewing. Ask what was exaggerated satire versus realistic industry pressure, and how the media shapes self-image.
Official Trailer
FAQs
1) What is Shell rated?
It’s rated R for violent content, gore, sexual content, graphic nudity, and language.
2) Is Shell appropriate for teens?
Mostly no. Some mature 16–17s could watch with guidance, but the content is intense.
3) How violent or scary is it?
It includes body-horror and procedure imagery that can be disturbing, plus some graphic moments.
4) How strong is the language?
Frequent strong profanity is reported throughout the film.
5) Is there sexual content or nudity?
Yes. The film contains sexual content and graphic nudity within its satire.
6) Where can I watch Shell?
In select theaters and on digital starting October 3, 2025; streaming details are not yet announced.
Notes: Basic plot, cast, and release details are taken from official trailer coverage and industry listings; Republic Pictures is distributing for Paramount Movies on October 3, 2025.