Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Sharp docu on controversial cosmetic surgery; mature themes.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Caterpillar (2025)
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In a desperate attempt to feel seen and accepted, David flies to India to undergo a controversial (and non-FDA-approved) cosmetic surgery that promises radical transformation—a permanent eye color change—in CATERPILLAR. But when the procedure doesn't go exactly as planned, David begins to question whether this superficial beautification will truly give him the deeper inner transformation that he desires.
Is It Any Good?
This documentary invites viewers on a sobering empathetic journey, embracing what human metamorphosis truly looks like. Mandelup's ability to frame a blurry concept and transform it into an engaging human interest piece is quite the feat. The documentary dives into the darker side of humanity's obsession with beauty with an honest viewpoint and an emotionally complex main character.
Revealing so much more than the dangers of eye color cosmetic surgery, this film exposes our blindness to real transformation and healing. Mandelup masterfully shifts the focus to the real issues and the depths to which we are willing to go to feel beautiful, loved, and accepted in life—at the risk of losing everything.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the emotional impact of documentaries like Caterpillar. Did any part of the film make you feel strong emotions (sad, angry, hopeful)? How can emotions affect the way that we understand information? Why do you think that the filmmakers chose to focus on the emotional journey more than the medical procedure aspect?
What do you agree or disagree with in this film? Do you think that documentaries can change people's behavior or opinions?
How is watching a documentary different from watching a social media video? Why is it important to question both? How can you tell if a film or video source is trustworthy?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 7, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : March 26, 2026
- Director : Liza Mandelup
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s)
- Studio : Good Deed Entertainment
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Family Stories ( Single Parents ) , STEM ( Science )
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Gratitude , Integrity , Perseverance
- Run time : 111 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : April 13, 2026
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