Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Tense, dark dystopian thriller has violence, gore.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Level 16
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 1 parent review
Based on 15 kid reviews
Kids say this film is a blend of intrigue and horror, featuring themes of violence, darkness, and some gore that might be unsettling for sensitive viewers. Despite the graphic elements and discussions of serious issues, many found it compelling and suitable for older teens, fostering themes of bravery and perseverance among the characters.
- graphic content
- dark themes
- teen suitability
- resilience depicted
- horror elements
- viewer caution
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
LEVEL 16 is the final level at the strict, bleak Vestalis Academy, where young orphaned girls are taken in and trained to be meek, subservient, and above all, clean. They're told this improves their chances of being adopted by good families. Those who make it to Level 16 are considered ready to be adopted, and Vivien (Katie Douglas) and her classmates are eager and hopeful about the new lives they'll soon begin. That is, until her friend Sophia (Celina Martin) convinces Vivien to stop taking the mandatory daily vitamin pill because it turns out to be no vitamin at all. Suddenly, nothing at Vestalis is what it seems, and the more the teens learn, the more dangerous things become.
Is It Any Good?
This sci-fi thriller does a good job of keeping up the tension, suspense, and dread, which fans of the genre will enjoy. The mostly feminist themes explored in Level 16 have been pretty well explored elsewhere, so there's not much new here. But it's still a good opportunity to talk about what makes women valuable to society, both physically and in their behavior. The tight script and solid acting add appeal to fans who like to be kept on the edge of their seats.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about feminism in Level 16. What makes women valuable to society in this world? Is it different from real life?
How do Vivien and Sophia show perseverance and teamwork?
Why are dystopian stories so popular? Do they affect how you see your world? What are some of your favorites, and how does this movie compare?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : June 4, 2019
- Cast : Katie Douglas , Celina Martin , Peter Outerbridge , Sarah Canning
- Director : Danishka Esterhazy
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Dark Sky Films
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Character Strengths : Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 102 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : December 29, 2025
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