Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Suicide, bullying in coming-of-age faith-based drama.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Forgiveness Girl
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
FORGIVENESS GIRL follows the coming-of-age story of Annie (Scarlett Diamond), a bright 9-year-old girl with cerebral palsy who finally makes a best friend who sees her for who she truly is. But senior year of high school brings all sorts of new challenges, as years of bullying, cruelty, and peer pressure bring Annie to her breaking point. Can she find it in her heart to forgive the biggest heartbreak of her life?
Is It Any Good?
This is a touching but uneven film about disability inclusiveness, faith, and the extraordinary gift of forgiveness. It tackles bullying head-on, along with the severe consequences related to it. That being said, this film is far from perfect. It places Annie's character on a pedestal to almost saint-like status; her transcendent ability to forgive, be kind, and even go to the lengths of donating bone marrow to save a friend feel a little too high and mighty and unrelatable for an ordinary kid struggling with life's challenges. But the messaging, told through an earnest story and convincing acting, will be meaningful to faith-based families.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how this film presents the theme of forgiveness. Does the film portray a relatable and accurate use of forgiveness? Is forgiveness always easy? Why, or why not?
How can we show compassion to those who may be different from us? What can we do to make others feel included and respected?
What are the consequences of bullying and cyberbullying in the film? Are there moments when a character could have made a better choice? What would you have done? How can we advocate for those being bullied?
How does Annie's faith influence her life and her decisions? How does her faith shape the story?
Did you notice any stereotypes here? Do you think that Annie falls into the "saintly disability" trope? Why, or why not?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : November 25, 2025
- Cast : Scarlett Diamond , Ryann Bailey , Walter Platz
- Director : Rob Diamond
- Studio : Rob Diamond Films
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Faith ( Christianity ) , Family Stories , Friendship , School ( Elementary School , High School )
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Empathy , Perseverance
- Run time : 111 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : July 10, 2026
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