Common Sense Media Review
By Kat Halstead
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Dark horror-thriller has violence, racism, strong language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 17+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Sunrise
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In SUNRISE, ex-cop Fallon (Alex Pettyfer) roams the land where a brutal killing took place, living off blood and a desire for vengeance. When he is taken in by Yan (Crystal Yu) and her family, who are being terrorized by racist demagogue Reynolds (Guy Pearce), he bides his time until he can act -- but will it be revenge or redemption?
Is It Any Good?
A dark, menacing atmosphere, gradual trickling of plot reveals, and wary, knife-edge performances from a strong cast make this a gritty, slow-burn thriller that will unsettle the soul. Sunrise has been hailed a vampire thriller, but the monster at its core is as much the bigoted aggression of the local town -- spouted and enforced at every turn by Pearce's fury-filled demagogue -- as it is any mythical figure. Its feeling of threat bubbling barely beneath the surface and flashes of savage gore remind viewers of the primal instincts that take over when survival is threatened, whether by lack of nourishment or those we believe would take what's ours. Pearce and Pettyfer make for brutal, brooding adversaries, and both Yu and Olwen Fouere strong matriarchs, ready for battle when pushed. Some of the mythical side disappears into its own sense of mystery, but the sheer tension and intensity make it difficult to look away.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the level of violence in Sunrise. Did you find the movie scary? Did you think there was too much violence, or did it add to the plot?
The movie centered on a small town that openly displayed racist views toward immigrants. How did Reynolds use religion and intimidation to maintain control of those around him and continue to play into his dangerous narrative?
How would you describe Fallon? Do you think he was a vampire, demon, or human? How did he compare to other on-screen portrayals of characters that survive on the blood of others?
Discuss the strong language used in the movie. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 19, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : January 19, 2024
- Cast : Alex Pettyfer , Guy Pearce , Crystal Yu
- Director : Andrew Baird
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s) , Multiracial Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Lionsgate
- Genre : Thriller
- Topics : Fantasy
- Run time : 94 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : violence, gore and language
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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