Common Sense Media Review
By Tracy Moore
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Meditation on tragic violence, grief is heavy and complex.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Missing William
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Abby (Courtney Ford) and James (Brandon Routh) were lifelong friends, until James mysteriously disappeared. Now he's back, just as Abby is preparing to marry William (Reid Scott). Soon, a tragic injury leaves William disabled and dependent on Abby, and James helps Abby sort through her feelings. Can he help Abby and William get back to normal, and can Abby ever return to her old life as long as William is dependent on her?
Is It Any Good?
MISSING WILLIAM is part love story, part grief story, and as such it never lands solidly on either front. There is some beautiful cinematography from experienced actors who make the most of their parts (and, interestingly, James and Abby are married in real life).There are some unexpected twists and surprising choices, and the film is to be commended for playing high drama more low-key than it has to. That said, it tends to sentimentalize every moment, and parents should be cautioned against the heavy themes here with the tragic violence, past abuse, casual and escapist drinking, and overall somber, meditative tone; there are no happy endings. It's best for older kids who appreciate complex resolutions.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the ending. Were you surprised by it? Why, or why not? Do you think the ending is possible in real life? Why, or why not?
People often deal with grief in their own way. What are some different ways people grieve? Have you ever lost someone close to you? How did you grieve?
How does drinking affect the events in the film?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 1, 2011
- On DVD or streaming : January 1, 2014
- Cast : Brandon Routh , Reid Scott , Courtney Ford
- Director : Kenn MacRae
- Studio : Naedomi Media
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Friendship
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : Rated PG for thematic elements, violence and language
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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