Bellyache (2026)
Story overview
Bellyache is a 2026 drama-fantasy film directed by Van Ditthavong, starring Marianne Rendón, Ben Michael Brown, Alex MacNicoll, and Christine Kellogg-Darrin. Set in Costa Rica and the United States, the story follows a grieving witch who retreats to a secluded cabin to give birth alone, exploring themes of loss, solitude, and magical realism over its 91-minute runtime.
Parent Guide
A contemplative fantasy-drama with themes of grief and magical birth, best for mature pre-teens and teens due to emotional depth and abstract storytelling.
Content breakdown
No physical violence; potential peril from emotional distress and supernatural elements, but depicted subtly.
Themes of grief and isolation may be disturbing; magical realism could be intense for sensitive viewers, but no jump scares or horror imagery.
No offensive language expected based on the dramatic and fantasy genres.
Implied childbirth context without explicit content; possible non-sexual nudity related to birth, handled artistically.
No substance use depicted, given the solitary, reflective setting.
High emotional intensity from themes of loss, solitude, and the transformative process of birth; may evoke sadness or introspection.
Parent tips
This film deals with mature themes of grief and isolation in a fantasy context. The witch's emotional journey and the supernatural elements may be intense for younger viewers. Consider the child's sensitivity to themes of loss and magical realism before watching. The film's focus on solitary birth and emotional processing makes it more suitable for older children and teens who can handle nuanced storytelling.
Parent chat guide
Parent follow-up questions
- Did you see any magic in the movie?
- How did the witch feel in her cabin?
- What was your favorite part?
- Why do you think the witch wanted to be alone?
- How did magic help her with her feelings?
- What does 'grieving' mean in the story?
- How does the film use fantasy to explore real emotions?
- What might the cabin symbolize for the witch?
- How does giving birth relate to her grief?
- Analyze the film's portrayal of solitude as both escape and healing.
- Discuss how cultural settings (Costa Rica/US) influence the magical realism.
- How does the film challenge or reinforce stereotypes about witches and motherhood?
Where to watch
Streaming availability has not been announced yet.
