Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Borget
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Faith-based family drama about standing up to bullying.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Operation Friendship
What's the Story?
In OPERATION FRIENDSHIP, Chaz Smith (Izaak Bellis) loves playing with toy soldiers and listening to his World War II veteran grandfather (Vincent Dantone) share stories from the past. When a student named Jimmy Roland (Grayson Stalcup) begins collecting everyone's toy army men—using it as a way to control the playground—Chaz decides it's time to take a stand. With encouragement from his father (James Arnold Taylor), mother (Libby Smallbone), and friends, he organizes a clever, team-based plan to challenge Jimmy's power. Through friendship, family support, and a bit of history-inspired strategy, Chaz learns that working together is stronger than facing trouble alone.
Is It Any Good?
Operation Friendship is a heartfelt family movie about friendship, teamwork, and learning from those who came before you. Chaz's growing bond with his grandfather is the heart of the story, and their moments together give the film its warmth. The scenes with Chaz and his friends teaming up to face Jimmy are fun and get the point across without being preachy.
The story is easy to follow, though it moves a little slowly in some places. While the acting and filming are simple, the movie's message about standing up for yourself and working together comes through clearly. It's a gentle, feel-good story that's best for kids and families looking for a lighthearted movie night with some faith-based messages.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Jimmy's bullying behavior shifts over the course of the movie. What do you think causes that change?
What message does this film send about standing up to bullies? Do you think the strategy Chaz uses is realistic? Why, or why not?
How are boys and girls represented in this movie? Do you notice any gender stereotypes? Are both boys and girls shown as brave or strong?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : August 12, 2025
- Cast : James Arnold Taylor , Darrell Rackley , Libby Smallbone , Izaak Bellis
- Director : Douglas B. Maddox
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Vision Films
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Friendship
- Character Strengths : Courage , Teamwork
- Run time : 74 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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