Watch the Skies, originally titled UFO Sweden, is a 2022 Swedish science fiction adventure film that combines retro charm with cutting-edge technology. Directed by Victor Danell, the film follows a determined teenage girl and a quirky group of UFO enthusiasts as they chase the truth about her missing father in 1990s Sweden.
Starring Inez Dahl Torhaug as Denise, the movie has earned praise for its nostalgic tone, strong performances, and exciting adventure. With visual effects reminiscent of classic ’80s films like E.T. and Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Watch the Skies is both a heartfelt story and a technological landmark — it’s the first feature to use AI-powered visual dubbing to match English dialogue to the original Swedish actors’ lip movements.
Here’s what parents need to know before watching this sci-fi tale with their family.
Watch the Skies Age Rating
Watch the Skies is not officially MPAA-rated in the U.S., but based on its content, it would likely be considered PG or PG-13. It contains moments of mild peril, language, and emotional themes. Below is a detailed content breakdown for parents:
Violence
The film includes scenes of mild to moderate action and peril as the characters evade authorities, break into secure locations, and uncover secrets. There are no depictions of graphic violence, but suspenseful moments — including chase scenes and tension-filled confrontations — may be intense for younger children.
No one is seriously harmed on-screen, and the tone remains adventurous rather than frightening or dark.
Language
There are a few uses of mild to moderate language in the English dubbed version (and likely in the original Swedish as well). Words such as “damn” or “crap” may appear, but there is no strong profanity or adult language.
Sexual Content
There is no sexual content or suggestive behavior in the film. The story remains family-friendly in this regard, focusing on relationships, mystery, and adventure without romantic subplots.
Mature Themes
The central theme of a missing parent adds an emotional layer, and the film explores grief, obsession, and the longing for closure. These mature elements are presented sensitively, making them appropriate for older children and teens.
The film also touches on belief systems, skepticism, and science vs. conspiracy, but nothing controversial or inappropriate for general audiences.
Is Watch the Skies Suitable for Kids and Teens?
Ages 7–9: Possibly suitable with parental guidance. The themes of loss and suspense might be intense for younger viewers, but children familiar with sci-fi adventures like Stranger Things or The Goonies may enjoy it.
Ages 10–12: Suitable for most tweens. The film’s balance of adventure and emotion is age-appropriate, especially for fans of family-friendly mysteries and alien tales.
Ages 13–17: Definitely suitable. Teens will likely connect with the lead character’s determination and enjoy the retro style and fast-paced mystery.
With its nostalgic tone, emotional depth, and light suspense, Watch the Skies is a great choice for family movie night — especially for those who enjoy sci-fi adventures with heart.
What Parents Can Do
Watch Together: The movie’s themes provide great opportunities for discussion — especially around loss, belief in the unknown, and perseverance in the face of uncertainty.
Talk About UFO Culture: For older children, this film might open up curiosity about UFO sightings, conspiracies, and how media explores them.
Discuss Critical Thinking: The characters question what they’re told and seek their own truth. Encourage conversations about skepticism, evidence, and open-mindedness.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Watch the Skies?
A: It is not officially rated, but it would likely fall under PG or PG-13 for mild language, peril, and emotional themes.
Q: Is there any violence in the movie?
A: The film features light action and suspense, including some chase scenes and close calls, but no graphic violence.
Q: Does the movie contain strong language?
A: Only mild language appears in the English dub; no strong profanity is used.
Q: Is there any sexual content?
A: No, the film is free of sexual content and suggestive behavior.
Q: Can kids watch Watch the Skies?
A: Yes, it is generally appropriate for kids 10 and up, with guidance for younger viewers depending on sensitivity to emotional content.