Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Inspiring underdog sports drama has positive messages.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Raising the Bar: The Alma Richards Story
What's the Story?
Based on a true story, RAISING THE BAR: THE ALMA RICHARDS STORY is an inspiring sports drama set in the early 1900s about Alma Richards (Paul Wuthrich). Richards grows up in the small farm town of Parowan, Utah, quitting school in the eighth grade with no idea that his childhood days of chasing jackrabbits and leaping over farm fences would ultimately lead him to high jumping history as the underdog gold medalist winner in the 1912 Olympics.
Is It Any Good?
As unconventional as it is uplifting, Alma Richards' story proves once again why audiences love watching a good underdog story. Wuthrich's strong performance and subtle humor in Raising the Bar defy not only gravity but the hallmarks of modern-day movie heroism. While director T.C. Christensen's indie historical sports drama is admittedly a predictable feel-good, David-versus-Goliath story, the historical setting, combined with the movie's deep dive into Richards' life and character, offers viewers a nuanced look into a humble, memorable American hero.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Raising the Bar: The Alma Richards Story compares to other inspiring sports movies. Why do you think that audiences are consistently drawn to David and Goliath stories and rooting for the underdog?
Why did the other American high jumpers feel the need to belittle Richards? How did he rise above their bullying? Why is it problematic to stereotype and discriminate against others, such as teammates?
The movie is based on a true story. How accurate do you think it is to what actually happened? Why might filmmakers change the facts in a film that's based on real life?
How do characters demonstrate courage, humility, integrity, and perseverance? Why are those important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 25, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : July 30, 2025
- Cast : Paul Wuthrich , Walter Platz , Ali Durham
- Director : T.C. Christensen
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Samuel Goldwyn Films
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Humility , Integrity , Perseverance
- Run time : 103 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic elements, language and smoking
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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