Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Drama about Duck Dynasty star has substance abuse, swearing.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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The Blind
What's the Story?
THE BLIND is based on the life of Duck Dynasty star Phil Robertson (Aron von Andrian). It follows Robertson from childhood to adulthood, including his marriage to Kay (Amelia Eve). He must come to terms with his own turbulent childhood and his addiction to alcohol in order to regain himself, his family, and a renewed life.
Is It Any Good?
This is a compelling drama about the personal struggles and redemption of the man whose duck calls led to the popular hit reality series Duck Dynasty. Fans of that show might have already heard about Robertson's past issues related to addiction and the trauma of growing up with an unstable mother, but if you're new to his story, The Blind tells it with panache. The acting grabs you, especially as Robertson becomes more controlled by his dependency and self-loathing. As with any hero's journey, he must face his truest test -- himself -- to be able to come back from the brink.
Robertson has said that being baptized and finding God saved him from his various demons. This leads to proselytizing in the film that's both subtle and overt -- especially at the end, when the real Robertson, a Bible in his lap, talks to the camera about his personal journey, equating it to being in the grips of the devil, only to be saved by Jesus. If you're already religious or spiritual, you might feel comforted or recognize your own personal understanding of God in Robertson's words. But if you're not one for organized religion (or just don't like watching media that's intended as a preaching tool), The Blind might not be the best movie for you. Religion aside, however, The Blind can offer insight into the psychology that allows people like Robertson to feel renewed within the embrace of organized religion, especially if the message they find there helps them save themselves and their family.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how religion is used in The Blind. Is this a faith-based film? Why, or why not?
How is Phil's dependency on alcohol depicted? Does it feel truthful? Are there realistic consequences? Why does that matter?
How is Kay characterized? Is her character realistic, or does she feel idealized?
How did Phil's childhood experiences affect his adult life? How does the film depict the way that people can grow from their prior experiences?
How accurate do you think the movie is to the facts of Phil's life? Why might filmmakers choose to adjust real events when making a movie based on real events?
Movie Details
- In theaters : September 28, 2023
- On DVD or streaming : November 14, 2023
- Cast : Aron von Andrian , Amelia Eve , John Ales , Connor Tillman
- Director : Andrew Hyatt
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Fathom Events
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Faith ( Christianity )
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Empathy , Gratitude , Humility , Self-control
- Run time : 108 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic content and smoking
- Last updated : February 4, 2026
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