Common Sense Media Review
By Common Sense Media
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Coming-of-age tale has some violence, deaths.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Iron Will
What's the Story?
IRON WILL follows the adventures of 17-year-old Will Stoneman (Mackenzie Astin), who, after his father dies, competes in a grueling dog sled race to save the family farm. Set in snowy, beautifully photographed wilderness, Iron Will is an action-packed adventure with heart and soul. Young Will Stoneman's determination to follow his dream, and his unwillingness to give up in the face of tremendous danger, is inspirational. In addition, his commitment to honoring his father and preserving his family's way of life is an admirable contrast to much of what's commonly offered pre-teen and teen audiences.
Is It Any Good?
The performances in this film are uniformly excellent. Oscar winner Kevin Spacey is a snappy, sarcastic presence as the veteran reporter who sees Will as his ticket to fame and fortune. Mackenzie Astin has a sweet but never sappy earnestness as Will. Supporting characters, from the grizzled competitors to the wealthy financiers (including David Ogden Stiers), who sponsor the race, fill out the cast nicely. The sled dogs are beautiful, and the stunts are wildly exciting and well staged.
Like many Disney releases, Iron Will contains moments that may disturb sensitive viewers. Will's father's death, and the idea that an adult would taunt and threaten a kid, are difficult concepts. Parents are urged to view this film along with their kids. One 8-year-old boy felt the film was "sad, but really exciting," and loved the animals. Although there are scary moments and the road is a little rough, Will's journey is well worth taking.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Will's courage in Iron Will and how each family member has used courage in his or her own life.
What is your favorite dog movie? How does this one compare?
Why do you think there are so many movies featuring heroic dogs?
How does Will demonstrate integrity, perseverance, and courage in Iron Will ? Why are those important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 14, 1994
- On DVD or streaming : April 23, 2003
- Cast : August Schellenberg , Kevin Spacey , Mackenzie Astin
- Director : Charles Haid
- Inclusion Information : Indigenous Movie Actor(s) , Gay Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Walt Disney Pictures
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Adventures
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity , Perseverance
- Run time : 109 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic elements
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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