Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Half-baked British dramedy about grief, friends, and cakes.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Love Sarah
What's the Story?
LOVE SARAH begins with the passing of Sarah (Candice Brown) a passionate baker who dreamed of having her own bakery in London's Notting Hill. Her best friend Isabella (Shelley Conn) considers selling their joint-owned shop, but is inspired by Sarah's daughter, Clarissa (Shannon Tarbet) and mother, Mimi (Celia Imrie) to fulfill Sarah's dreams and re-open the establishment as a cafe to sell cakes to the masses -- if they ever arrive.
Is It Any Good?
This film is true of the Notting Hill businesses it represents; it's charming and accessible, but a little pretentious and self-aware. It is, however, a nice take on grief and looks into loss from differing perspectives, and while it never gets too deep or profound, there's an uplifting undercurrent to this production. Imrie is the stand-out performer -- as she so often is -- in a movie that subtly celebrates the diligence and resourcefulness of women.
The celebration of diversity is also welcomemin Love Sarah, albeit less subtle. The characters wish to bake cakes and treats for people of different cultures, highlighting the different cuisines and traditions from around the world. It could be seen as an exploitative tactic, but they do so in the name of inclusivity and to really champion the multiculturalism of London. Perhaps this is just one big apology to the people of Notting Hill, correcting the wrongs of the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts '90s romcom, and ensuring a much more diverse, and authentic portrayal of the area is reflected on screen.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how grief is portrayed in Love Sarah. How does Sarah's death impact those who loved her? Discuss the loss of any family members or pets that have passed away? Movies to help kids deal with grief.
At the center of the movie is a collective of empowering, independent women. What women in your own lives inspire you, and why?
How does the movie address diversity and inclusivity? What different cultures and traditions have you encountered from around the world? What different foods, for instance, do you enjoy from cultures that aren't your own?
Each of the characters put everything on the line to start their new business. Do you have any ambitions to one day start your own business? If so, what would it be?
Movie Details
- In theaters : July 10, 2020
- On DVD or streaming : January 15, 2021
- Cast : Celia Imrie , Shelley Conn , Shannon Tarbet
- Director : Eliza Schroeder
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Indian/South Asian Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Samuel Goldwyn Films
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Cooking , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 97 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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