Parents' Guide to

Wildcat

By Monique Jones, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Powerful docu looks frankly at mental health struggles.

Movie R 2022 106 minutes
Wildcat Movie Poster

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What's the Story?

WILDCAT follows young British veteran Harry Turner, who takes a journey to the Amazon forest in Peru to join a conservationist effort. During his time there, he rediscovers his life -- and faces his mental health struggles -- as he and the head of the center, Samantha Zwicker, rehabilitate an orphaned ocelot named Keanu.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

This deeply engrossing documentary not only brings conservation down to a personal level but also reveals the winding road that is living with mental health symptoms, illnesses, or disorders. Harry is open and honest about his struggles, so viewers who want to avoid specific topics surrounding mental health (particularly suicidal ideation and self-harm) might want to take care. But the film does provide an inside look at how people with mental health symptoms are much more complicated and emotionally deep than many media stereotypes suggest, portraying them as well-meaning, empathetic people who want to help themselves, their family, their community, and the wider world.

Wildcat also offers audiences a deep respect and empathy for people who struggle with mental health. Seeing Harry's struggles play out on-screen could allow viewers in similar circumstances to see how their actions might affect others and, hopefully, could lead people to reach out for help. In addition to the film's mental health message, it provides a broader look at how conservation isn't something that's remote from individual people: It argues that everyone can make a difference, whether that's through a conservation program or by watching for grass snakes and other animals as you mow your lawn. Overall, Wildcat promotes the message of how animals -- and nature itself -- can help humans heal and teach us more about ourselves.

If you or someone you love is in crisis, you can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how mental health is addressed in Wildcat. What affects Harry's mental health? What makes him feel better? What resources are out there for people, like Harry, who are struggling? (If you or someone you love is in crisis, you can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.)

  • How does Harry cope with his mental health symptoms? Does he cope in a healthy or unhealthy way?

  • What does Harry's relationship with Keanu teach him?

  • How does Samantha's past affect her own mental health and how she relates to Harry?

  • How does the film promote compassion, empathy, curiosity, and perseverance? Why are these important character strengths?

Movie Details

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Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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