The Best You Can is a 2025 American drama film written, directed, and produced by Michael J. Weithorn. The film stars real-life couple Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick as Stan Olszewski and Cynthia Rand, marking their first on-screen reunion in two decades.
The story follows Stan, a security guard who stops a robbery at Cynthia’s home. What begins as a late-night exchange of funny texts turns into a meaningful and complex friendship between two adults facing big changes in their lives. The film looks closely at emotional connection, loneliness, and human growth in mid-life.
The film also stars Judd Hirsch, Brittany O’Grady, Ray Romano, Olivia Luccardi, Meera Rohit Kumbhani, and more. The Best You Can will premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 7, 2025.
The Best You Can Age Rating
The Best You Can is rated R for language, sexual references, and some drug use. Here’s a closer, spoiler-free look at the film’s content to help parents decide if it’s right for teens.
Language
There is frequent strong language throughout the film, including the use of f-words and other profanities in casual conversation. The language reflects real-life adult dialogue.
Sexual References
Characters discuss adult relationships and intimacy in a mature, often humorous way. While there are no explicit scenes or nudity, innuendos and suggestive dialogue appear in several conversations.
Drug Use
There are scenes of adult characters using recreational marijuana and drinking alcohol. These moments are brief and not glamorized, but they are clearly shown.
Mature Themes
The film deals with serious life issues like aging, loneliness, emotional healing, and the search for connection. It explores the gray area of adult relationships and the struggles of mid-life change. Though touching and sometimes funny, the emotional weight may be heavy for younger viewers.
Is The Best You Can Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. The film’s adult conversations, drug references, and emotional themes are not appropriate for tweens. It’s aimed at a much older audience.
Ages 13–17: Caution advised. Older teens might appreciate the film’s emotional message, but parents should know about the mature content. The sexual humor, strong language, and reflective tone may not be suitable for all teens.
The Best You Can is best for adult audiences or older, mature teens who can handle thoughtful, adult-centered drama.
What Parents Can Do
Watch First: Consider previewing the film yourself to see if it fits your teen’s maturity level.
Have a Conversation: If your teen watches it, talk about the themes of friendship, loneliness, and aging. These can lead to meaningful discussions.
Clarify Context: Some content (language or sexual jokes) may need explaining or context, especially for younger viewers.
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for The Best You Can?
A: It’s rated R for language, sexual references, and some drug use.
Q: Is The Best You Can appropriate for teens?
A: Not for younger teens. It may be okay for mature older teens with parental guidance.
Q: Does the film contain sexual content?
A: No explicit scenes, but it includes adult conversations and suggestive dialogue.
Q: Are drugs or alcohol shown in the movie?
A: Yes. There are a few scenes with marijuana and alcohol use.
Q: Where can I watch The Best You Can?
A: The film will premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 7, 2025.