The Surfer is a 2024 psychological thriller directed by Lorcan Finnegan and written by Thomas Martin. It stars Nicolas Cage and explores themes of masculinity, obsession, and psychological unraveling. The film follows an Australian father who returns to his childhood beach with his son, only to be humiliated by a gang of territorial locals. As his life starts to spiral out of control, his desperation for revenge pushes him into a surreal psychological breakdown.
Premiering at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, The Surfer will be released theatrically by Roadside Attractions on May 2, 2025. Known for his work on Vivarium, Finnegan blends psychological horror with social commentary, making this an intense and unsettling thriller.
The Surfer Age Rating
The Surfer is suitable for viewers 16 and up as it contains strong language, psychological intensity, and disturbing content. Below is a breakdown of what parents should know before deciding if it’s appropriate for teens.
Violence & Disturbing Content
The film contains psychological and physical confrontations that escalate into disturbing situations. There are intense verbal altercations, physical threats, and moments of psychological torment as the protagonist descends into madness. While not a traditional horror film, the unsettling atmosphere, paranoia, and eerie imagery contribute to a deeply disturbing experience.
Language
Strong language is present throughout the film, including multiple uses of profanity. The dialogue includes aggressive and insulting remarks, particularly during confrontations between the main character and the antagonists.
Sexual Content
The Surfer does not contain explicit sexual content or nudity. However, themes of masculinity, humiliation, and power struggles may lead to discussions around male identity and self-worth.
Mature Themes
The film delves into psychological instability, paranoia, and the fragility of self-identity. It explores a man’s obsession with reclaiming his past, as well as his struggle with emasculation and failure. The themes of mental breakdown, social exclusion, and existential despair make it emotionally intense.
Is The Surfer Suitable for Teens?
Ages 12-14: Not recommended due to psychological intensity, disturbing imagery, and strong language.
Ages 15-17: This may be suitable for mature teens who enjoy psychological thrillers. However, parents should be aware of the film’s disturbing themes and surreal elements, which may be unsettling.
Due to its dark themes and intense psychological unraveling, The Surfer is best suited for adults and older teens who can engage with its complex storytelling and abstract narrative.
What Parents Can Do
- Watch the Trailer: Get a sense of the film’s unsettling atmosphere before deciding if it’s appropriate for your teen.
- Discuss Mental Health Themes: The film raises issues of masculinity, identity, and psychological deterioration, which could lead to meaningful discussions.
- Monitor Sensitivity Levels: If your teen is sensitive to unsettling psychological narratives, paranoia-driven plots, or existential themes, this may not be the right film for them.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for The Surfer?
A: The film is rated 16+ for strong language, psychological intensity, and disturbing content.
Q: How intense is The Surfer?
A: The film is a psychological thriller with disturbing themes, surreal moments, and a protagonist who slowly descends into madness.
Q: Does The Surfer contain graphic violence?
A: While not heavily violent, it features psychological torment, aggressive confrontations, and unsettling imagery.
Q: Is The Surfer appropriate for teenagers?
A: The film is best suited for older teens (16+) and adults due to its psychological depth and disturbing content.
Q: Where can I watch The Surfer?
A: The Surfer will be released in theaters on May 2, 2025, by Roadside Attractions.