Common Sense Media Review
By Yvonne Condes
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Strong message, weak story in faith-based trafficking drama.
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Priceless
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 7 parent reviews
Based on 10 kid reviews
Kids say the film is a deeply impactful story that addresses human trafficking with sensitivity and care, resonating especially with Christian viewers who appreciate its strong message about worth and redemption. The performances, particularly by Joel Smallbone, received praise, though some viewers questioned plot choices; overall, it is recommended for teens and adults due to its compelling narrative and emotional depth.
- great message
- strong performances
- emotional depth
- recommended for teens
- sensitive topic
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In PRICELESS, James (Joel Smallbone), an unemployed widower, hits rock bottom after his daughter is taken away from him. He agrees to drive a van full of "cargo" to earn money to get her back. But the cargo -- two scared young women who agree to make the dangerous journey across the border to pay off their father's debt -- isn't as easy to unload as he expects it to be. Once he gives Antonia (Bianca A. Santos) and Maria (Amber Midthunder) over to a human trafficker, James realizes he must figure out how to save them -- and himself.
Is It Any Good?
This faith-based drama isn't particularly subtle. James is searching for some meaning in life after his wife dies and his daughter is taken away from him. He drinks too much, gets in too many fights with strangers, and takes a job that he knows is against the law. Antonia, the beautiful young woman who's forced into prostitution, wears a cross and says she'll pray for James because she knows they aren't alone in the universe. There are many religious metaphors and references (as well as stereotypes), and you can see where the plot is going from a mile away.
That said, Priceless also conveys the message that the bad things that happen to us don't define us. And there's help out there for people who've been exploited or, like James, have lost their way. This drama will give families of older kids a lot to talk about, but viewers looking for nuance and strong storytelling may be disappointed.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the themes in Priceless. How do characters demonstrate courage, compassion, and empathy? Why are those important character strengths?
Do you have to share the filmmakers' beliefs in order to appreciate this movie/other faith-based dramas?
How does the violence in this movie compare to what you might see in an action/thriller movie? Does all media violence have the same impact?
Have you ever thought about why people do the things they do? Do you try to put yourself in their shoes?
Movie Details
- In theaters : October 14, 2016
- On DVD or streaming : February 14, 2017
- Cast : Jim Parrack , Bianca A. Santos , David Koechner , Joel Smallbone
- Director : Ben Smallbone
- Studio : Roadside Attractions
- Genre : Drama
- Run time : 97 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : mature thematic material involving human trafficking, and some violence
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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