Parents' Guide to David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived

Movie NR 2023 83 minutes
David Holmes -- The Boy Who Lived movie poster: Daniel Radcliffe stands next to his stunt double David Holmes who is sitting in a wheelchair.

Common Sense Media Review

Danny Brogan By Danny Brogan , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 11+

Docu about paralyzed Potter stuntman is full of positivity.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 11+?

Any Positive Content?

  • David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived Trailer
  • David Holmes -- The Boy Who Lived: Daniel Radcliffe stands next to his stunt double David Holmes, who is sitting in a wheelchair, in a warehouse.
  • David Holmes -- The Boy Who Lived: A young David Holmes performs a stunt that involves him flying through the air.
  • David Holmes -- The Boy Who Lived: A close-up of David Holmes, Daniel Radcliffe's stunt double, playing Harry Potter.

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What's the Story?

DAVID HOLMES: THE BOY WHO LIVED is a documentary about Daniel Radcliffe's stunt double on the Harry Potter films who suffered life-changing injuries after an accident on set.

Is It Any Good?

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

This documentary about a young stunt man who broke his neck on the set of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 could have been very different had it not been for its star's unbreakable spirit. As tragic as the accident was, it's impossible to walk away from David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived without feeling inspired and with a new appreciation for life. Radcliffe may initially pull the viewers in, but he's more than happy to take a back seat, letting his close friend take center stage. Indeed the bond between Holmes and all his friends is incredibly touching. But Holmes is the star here and what's clear from the behind-the-scenes footage is that he always was. Someone who Radcliffe refers to as an older brother, Holmes' fearlessness and generosity stands out, from the early home footage to his interactions with his nurses and physios. Of course it's heartbreaking to see someone so young being prevented from doing something they so clearly loved. But neither Holmes nor the film ever calls for our sympathy. Indeed the only call to action is one to live your life the best you can, surrounding yourself with the best friends you can find.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the positive messages in David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived. How would you describe David Holmes' outlook to life, both before and after his accident? Would you describe him as a positive role model? Why, or why not? What makes a good role model?

  • What character strengths did both Holmes and his friends display during the film? Can you think of a time when you've shown these traits?

  • If you could take one piece of advice or life lesson from the film, what would that be?

Movie Details

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David Holmes -- The Boy Who Lived movie poster: Daniel Radcliffe stands next to his stunt double David Holmes who is sitting in a wheelchair.

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