Songs from the Hole is a powerful 2025 Netflix original that blends documentary storytelling with a visual album format. Directed by Contessa Gayles, and featuring original music and narration by James “JJ’88” Jacobs, the film tells the deeply personal story of JJ’88 — a young man sentenced to life in prison at age 15 after taking a life.
While in solitary confinement, JJ’88 began writing music to cope with trauma, loss, and guilt — including the death of his brother just days after the crime.
The result is a moving, genre-breaking film about healing, identity, and the redemptive power of creativity.
Songs from the Hole features animation, dream sequences, and real audio recordings from prison. It premieres on Netflix on August 13, 2025.
Songs from the Hole Age Rating
Rating: TV-MA (Mature Audiences Only)
Due to the film’s emotionally heavy and realistic portrayal of trauma, incarceration, and violence, it is intended for adult viewers and may not be appropriate for younger teens.
Here’s a breakdown of content areas parents should know:
Violence & Emotional Content
- The film recounts real-life violence — including the central crime committed by JJ’88 at age 15.
- While there are no graphic scenes, discussions of murder, prison life, and trauma are honest and emotionally intense.
- Viewers will hear about solitary confinement, loss, and the emotional consequences of violence.
Language
- Occasional strong language appears in narration and music lyrics, reflecting real emotions and environments.
- Language is used sparingly but realistically.
Mature Themes
- Subject Matter: Incarceration, trauma, guilt, forgiveness, and the criminal justice system.
- The film thoughtfully explores mental health, grief, and personal growth through music and art.
- These are serious, mature topics that may be difficult for younger viewers to fully understand or process.
Is Songs from the Hole Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–13: Not suitable. The subject matter, while handled with care, is too emotionally heavy and complex for younger viewers. The film’s focus on real-world violence and the justice system requires a level of maturity.
Ages 14–17: Not recommended for most. Some mature, socially aware teens may benefit from the film’s message about transformation and healing, especially when viewed with a parent or guardian. However, due to the emotionally raw content and discussions of serious violence, it’s best viewed by older teens with strong emotional maturity.
Songs from the Hole is ultimately intended for adult audiences, though its message may resonate with some older teens who are ready to engage with its themes in a thoughtful way.
What Parents Should Know
- Frame the Story: This film is not entertainment — it is a real and emotional testimony about a life shaped by violence, incarceration, and hope.
- Discuss the Themes: If your older teen watches, talk with them about the film’s themes — justice, trauma, healing, and the role of music as emotional expression.
- Help Set Expectations: Make sure teens understand this is not a glamorized story of prison life, but a reflective and artistic portrayal of change and accountability.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Songs from the Hole?
A: The film is rated TV-MA for mature subject matter, including emotional themes and real-life violence.
Q: Is the film appropriate for teens?
A: It’s not recommended for most teens. Only older, emotionally mature teens may be able to process the film’s intense subject matter.
Q: Does the film show violence?
A: No graphic scenes, but the story involves real violence and trauma. The emotional impact is strong.
Q: Is there any sexual content?
A: No. The film contains no sexual content or nudity.
Q: Where can I watch Songs from the Hole?
A: The film will stream exclusively on Netflix beginning August 13, 2025.