Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
High School Musical meets the pandemic in indie musical.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Plan Bea
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
When a global pandemic bans singing, one high school student (Mary Peter) secretly forms an underground show choir in PLAN BEA. What starts off as an act of teenage rebellion slowly turns into a way to rally the school community during the crisis.
Is It Any Good?
High School Musical meets Mean Girls meets COVID-19 passion project in Plan Bea, an edgy but heartfelt teen grassroots film filled with creativity and joy. This production was written and produced by students at a Sydney high school, and it stars teens from the school as well. It's a memorable and joyful reminder of how music, art, and resilience are necessary during times of crisis as it celebrates teamwork and the power of community. The finished product is raw and imperfect, but that's part of its charm.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the importance of music, art, and creative expression during a crisis. Why do you think that the filmmakers chose the global pandemic as the setting for the story? Does this film present breaking the rules as bad, good, or something more complicated?
Is there a difference between what a musical shows us and what it tells us? How do the music and choreographed dancing affect your understanding of the film's themes and messages?
What kinds of diversity did you notice while watching this film? Did the characters seem to represent complex individuals or a certain "type" of person? What assumptions were made about teens, adults, schools, and teachers? Were there any perspectives missing or representation that you would've liked to see more of?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : August 25, 2026
- Cast : Mary Peter , Mia Skjellerup , Jay Stocker
- Director : Sean Peter
- Studio : Make Another Plan Pictures
- Genre : Musical
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School ) , Arts ( Dance , Music and Sing-Along )
- Character Strengths : Integrity , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 104 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 8, 2026
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