Common Sense Media Review
By Sabrina McFarland
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Star NFL quarterback rallies against U.S. racism; language.
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Kaepernick & America
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In KAEPERNICK & AMERICA, the childhood of Colin Kaepernick as a biracial and adopted kid and later as a San Francisco 49ers quarterback is discussed through narratives that include sports journalists, NFL colleagues, and citizens of Turlock, California, the player's hometown since the age of 4. As an adult, Kaepernick's controversial move of taking a knee on an NFL field during the singing of the U.S. national anthem in protest of the country's racism sparks outrage among a number of devoted fans. The action also creates a present-day national conversation about the ongoing systemic discrimination that has existed in the United States for centuries.
Is It Any Good?
With this juxtaposed lens of a beloved biracial NFL quarterback and the conflicting culture in the country where he plays, this film doesn't fumble. Kaepernick & America kicks off with the backstory of the football star's ancestry as a transracial adopted kid. "As a child," says Kaepernick, "I would draw family pictures in kindergarten fully aware of the fact that I had to switch the color of the crayons when it came time to draw my skin and my hair." But in fourth grade, Kaepernick confidently writes a letter about the big dreams of going "to a good college in football…then go to the pros," and even cites the Green Bay Packers and San Francisco 49ers as his teams of choice.
"The idea of finding your true identity based on being biracial in this country is so challenging because you know that people are clocking and watching you and holding you to a higher and different standard than some of your other white peers and colleagues…and you better be the best or else," notes April Dinwoodie, a transracial adoption expert. During his professional career, Kaepernick is vilified for his stand to support the civil rights of racially-oppressed people through his taking a knee gesture during NFL games. "We have a lot of issues in this country that we need to deal with," says the football star, and Kaepernick & America flawlessly scores a touchdown with its perceptive play.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the communication of Colin Kaepernick in Kaepernick & America. How does he also demonstrate courage, perseverance, and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
Kaepernick is biracial and was adopted by a White couple. Why might growing up in a transracial environment be a challenge?
Compassion for the civil rights of others is important to Kaepernick, even if it could mean sacrificing a football career. Would you consider doing the same? Why or why not?
What do you think of the NFL decision about Kaepernick? Is it fair one? Why or why not?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : September 2, 2022
- Cast : Colin Kaepernick , April Dinwoodie , Don Lemon
- Directors : Tommy Walker , Ross Hockrow
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Multiracial Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Dark Star Pictures
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Activism , History
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 82 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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