The Observance is an upcoming thriller movie directed by Robert Hollocks and written by Amy Rhinehart Bailey and Hollocks. The film follows Madison Neubauer (played by Kate Dailey), who wakes up after five years in a coma only to find her home and family under the control of a mysterious religious cult known as The Observance. The film stars Ted Raimi, Kate Dailey, and Donald Morgan in lead roles.
This suspense-filled movie explores dark psychological themes, manipulation, and violence within a religious setting. It has already gained attention on the film festival circuit with multiple award nominations.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | The Observance |
| Genre | Thriller |
| Director/Writer | Robert Hollocks / Amy Rhinehart Bailey |
| Starring | Ted Raimi, Kate Dailey, Donald Morgan |
| Age Rating | R (Restricted) by the MPAA |
| Release Date | 2026 |
| Distributor | Beyond Casual Media, LLC |
The Observance Age Rating
The Observance has been rated R for bloody violence, suicide, and some language, according to the official CARA (Classification and Rating Administration) bulletin. This means the film contains multiple violent and disturbing scenes, strong imagery, and mature themes unsuitable for children.
An R rating means that viewers under 17 require a parent or adult guardian to watch the movie. It signals that the content includes graphic violence, blood, and psychological horror, making it appropriate only for mature audiences.
Is The Observance Suitable for Kids?
No. The Observance is not suitable for children or young teens. The movie contains heavy violence, frightening sequences, and disturbing visuals that are not meant for younger viewers. Even older teens may find the scenes too intense due to its cult-themed storyline, bloody imagery, and moments of fear and brutality. Parents are strongly advised to preview the trailer or film before allowing teens to watch it.
Age-by-Suitability Table
| Age Group | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Ages 3–7 | Not suitable – includes disturbing and violent content. |
| Ages 8–12 | Not recommended – strong violence and frightening visuals. |
| Teens (13–15) | Viewer discretion advised – contains mature and graphic scenes. |
| Teens (16–17) | Yes, with caution – older teens may watch with parental guidance. |
| Adults | Yes – suitable for mature viewers only. |
The Observance Parents Guide
The Observance contains intense and graphic material throughout the film. The story revolves around a cult and involves frightening, bloody, and violent moments that may be disturbing for sensitive audiences.
- Sex & Nudity: The movie contains a few scenes with mild sexual content and brief references, but nothing explicit.
- Violence & Gore: This is the most significant element of the movie. There are heavy and bloody violence scenes, including the use of weapons. The film shows murder in a realistic manner. Some characters appear with deep wounds and injuries on their bodies and faces. In one particularly graphic scene, a man is shown brutally crushing a woman on the road with his feet. The overall tone of the movie is dark and violent.
- Profanity: The movie includes some strong language, though it is not excessive.
- Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking: Characters are shown drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes in several scenes.
- Frightening & Intense Scenes: The movie features scary characters, bloody imagery, and cult-based rituals. It contains moments of superstition, mental breakdowns, and psychological horror that make it deeply unsettling.
Overall, The Observance is a dark, violent thriller with disturbing visuals that parents should approach cautiously.
Tips for Parents
- Preview the official trailer before watching the full movie.
- Discuss themes like violence, superstition, and psychological manipulation with older teens before viewing.
- Be aware that some scenes depict blood, murder, and injury in realistic ways that may upset sensitive viewers.
- If your teen watches, stay nearby or watch together to address any disturbing moments.
The Observance Official Trailer
Watch the trailer for The Observance here:-
FAQs
Q1: What is the official age rating for The Observance?
A1: The Observance is rated R for bloody violence, suicide, and some language, as per the official CARA rating bulletin.
Q2: Does The Observance have graphic violence?
A2: Yes. The movie contains heavy and bloody violence, including scenes of murder, visible injuries, and frightening imagery.
Q3: Are there any sexual or adult scenes in The Observance?
A3: There are only mild sexual references with no explicit content. The focus remains on violence and dark cult activity.
Q4: Does The Observance film show alcohol or smoking?
A4: Yes. Some characters are shown drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes during the film.
Q5: Is The Observance okay for teens?
A5: It is not recommended for viewers under 16. Only mature teens (16–17) may watch it with parental guidance due to strong violence and disturbing visuals.