Isabella Thornton
Here’s everything you need to know about Teenage Wasteland (2025), the critically acclaimed documentary that turns a student film project into a remarkable real-life investigation. Discover its premiere date, Netflix streaming availability, full cast lineup, story, trailer, and runtime, plus a complete guide on where and how to watch Teenage Wasteland online.
Teenage Wasteland Synopsis
Teenage Wasteland begins in the early 1990s, when an unconventional teacher encourages a group of teenagers in upstate New York to pick up cameras and create a student film. Their project quickly becomes more serious when the students uncover a conspiracy that is poisoning their community. Instead of remaining passive observers, the teenagers begin documenting what they discover and questioning the powerful forces around them. Their homemade film transforms an ordinary school experience into an unexpected act of investigative journalism. Thirty years later, the former students return to the documentary they made and reconsider the events through adult eyes. They also confront the lasting impact that their youthful investigation had on their lives and community. By connecting past footage with present-day reflection, Teenage Wasteland explores courage, curiosity, friendship and what can happen when young people refuse to ignore an uncomfortable truth.
When does Teenage Wasteland premiere?
Teenage Wasteland premieres on Netflix on September 4, 2026. The documentary previously received a limited theatrical release on November 26, 2025.
Cast
- Isaac Levi Anthony – Self / Student
- Varda Appleton – Self / Studio Guest 2
- David Birmingham – Self
- Carly Cannata – Self / Student
- Jeffrey Dutemple – Self
- Fred Isseks – Self
- Grant S. Johnson – Self / Studio Guest 1
- Seychelles Mizel – Self / Student
- Amy Parra-Gonzalez – Self
- Rachel Raimist – Self
- Michael Regan – Self
- Nicholas René Rodriguez – Self / Student
- Jack Stone – Self / Student
Where to Watch Teenage Wasteland
You can watch Teenage Wasteland on Netflix in the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and other supported regions from September 4, 2026. The critically acclaimed documentary is available to stream online through the Netflix website and app with an active subscription. Viewers can watch Teenage Wasteland on demand across compatible smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, computers, and streaming devices.
What is the age rating for Teenage Wasteland?
Netflix lists Teenage Wasteland as TV-14 in the United States. Parents should check the rating and content information displayed by Netflix in their own country, as classifications can differ between regions.
What was Teenage Wasteland originally called?
Teenage Wasteland was originally titled Middletown. It screened under the Middletown title at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival before later being released as Teenage Wasteland.
Can I download Teenage Wasteland for offline viewing?
Yes. The supplied Netflix page specifically lists Teenage Wasteland as available to download, meaning eligible Netflix subscribers can save the documentary to a supported device for offline viewing.
On What Devices Can I Watch Netflix?
| Device Type | Supported Devices |
|---|---|
| Smart TVs | Samsung, LG, Sony, Hisense, TCL, Panasonic, Philips, Vizio |
| Streaming Devices | Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku |
| Smartphones | iPhone, Android phones |
| Tablets | iPad, Android tablets, Amazon Fire tablets |
| Computers | Windows PC, Mac, Chromebook |
| Game Consoles | PlayStation, Xbox |
| Set-Top Boxes | Selected cable and pay-TV boxes |
| AR/VR Devices | Apple Vision Pro, Meta Quest |
Teenage Wasteland Trailer
FAQs
- How long is Teenage Wasteland?
Teenage Wasteland has a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. - Is Teenage Wasteland based on a true story?
Yes. Teenage Wasteland tells a true story about students at Middletown High School who investigated allegations involving toxic waste. - Who directed Teenage Wasteland?
Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss directed Teenage Wasteland. The filmmaking duo is also known for documentaries including Boys State, Girls State and The Mission.
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