Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Borget
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Horse drama sequel explores healing; drugs and grief.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
If I Could Ride Again
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In IF I COULD RIDE AGAIN, former champion Bridgett Van Heusen (Eva Igo) returns home after a difficult year at college. She's still recovering from a riding accident and secretly struggling with a growing addiction to painkillers. At the same time, her friend, rising star Jodie Brown (Alexis Arnold), is training with their old coach—and Bridgett sees a lot of herself in the younger rider. As family pressures build and secrets come to light, both girls must face hard truths, find their own paths, and decide what really matters—on and off the saddle.
Is It Any Good?
This drama has touching moments, strong performances, and a heartfelt message, but the story can feel a little messy at times. There are many characters and subplots—family drama, addiction, financial struggles, and friendship—which makes the movie feel a bit too full for its short run time. Some scenes are emotional and powerful, especially as Bridgett faces her addiction and learns to ask for help.
The film is beautifully shot, with soft lighting and peaceful outdoor scenes that horse lovers will enjoy. But some younger viewers may find the pacing slow or the story hard to follow at times. Still, families who like emotional stories about healing, second chances, and—of course—horses may find this sequel worth the ride.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why Bridgett didn't ask for help with her addiction sooner. What does this movie say about taking responsibility and knowing when to speak up?
Jodie decides not to compete and instead wants to ride for fun. What does that decision say about her values? Do you think it was a hard choice?
This movie includes big emotions like fear, anger, and guilt. How do different characters deal with those feelings?
How did the characters show growth? Can you think of a moment when someone changed for the better?
The movie explores forgiveness. Why is forgiveness important? Is it always easy to forgive?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : July 8, 2025
- Cast : Ursula Boutwell , Alexis Arnold , Ethan Rhoad , Eva Igo
- Director : Nick Pinelli
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Vision Films
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Animals
- Run time : 97 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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