Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Green
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Atlanta-set coming-of-age musical celebrates faith, music.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Praise This
What's the Story?
In PRAISE THIS, Darius (Philip Fornah) moves his daughter Sam (Chlöe Bailey) from LA to Atlanta because he thinks she's been heading down the wrong path since her mother passed away a year ago. In Atlanta, Sam is going to live with her aunt and uncle (Janora McDuffie and Kendrick Cross) and "cousin sister" Jess (Anjelika Washington). As a punishment for getting caught at a party, Sam is forced to join Jess' competitive church choir at the family's local, unconventional church. It turns out that Sam is a professional-level singer and has long wanted to launch a music career. Local rap artist Ty (Quavo) might be able to help her reach her goals, just as she might be able to help the praise team overcome their embarrassing past performances and secure a spot at nationals.
Is It Any Good?
This exuberant, uplifting coming-of-age tale celebrates spiritual faith, Black characters, and spectacular singing. Bailey and Washington make a fabulous duo, and their characters complement each other. Bailey's amazing vocals and snarky (at first) attitude are an amusing contrast to Washington's sweet, comedic naïveté. The film gets off to a slightly awkward start with opening scenes that work a little too hard to establish character and context. And it's unclear why Washington is occasionally filmed as if she's talking to the camera. But once the singing competitions get underway, the story picks up steam.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about which experiences soften Sam in Praise This. How does she change over the course of the movie? Does she learn humility?
How does the Oil Factory church provide a welcoming place for congregants, no matter their background or mistakes? How does it compare to churches you might be familiar with?
What do you think was the lesson of the final competition scene? How did the Oil Factory troupe demonstrate inclusivity with their number?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : April 7, 2023
- Cast : Chlöe Bailey , Anjelika Washington , Tristan Mack Wilds
- Director : Tina Gordon Chism
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s) , Black Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Peacock
- Genre : Musical
- Topics : Friendship , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Character Strengths : Humility
- Run time : 112 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Winner
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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