Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Heartfelt drama about dementia has language, bullying.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Ruby's Choice
What's the Story?
In RUBY'S CHOICE, teen Tash's (Coco Jack Gillies) world turns upside down when her grandmother Ruby (Jane Seymour) has to move in with Tash and her parents after Ruby accidentally started a fire in her house. And as if that weren't enough of a change, her uncle and cousin also have to move in while her uncle's marriage is in crisis. Financial hardships mean Tash is going to have to take a month off school to take care of Ruby, and Tash is upset and resentful. But as she starts to spend time with Ruby, Tash learns a long-held family secret, and she also learns that someone with dementia still has a lot to offer.
Is It Any Good?
This gentle, sweet, slow-paced story of a family in crisis will tug at the heartstrings and provide a good opportunity for families to talk about long-term care and aging. The acting is solid, but the pace sags in a few places and overall the movie feels a bit too long. Alternating between the experiences of the teens and their parents in such a low-key way will probably limit the appeal to kids younger than teens. But teens will relate to Tash as she copes with huge changes in her life.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the strong language in Ruby's Choice. Is it realistic, or necessary? Why?
Tash changes from someone who's very unhappy with her situation to someone who shows compassion and feels empathy for her grandmother. What brings about that change?
How do their strong communication skills help the family cope with big changes in their lives?
Do you know someone with dementia? What are some ways you can help them?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : May 7, 2024
- Cast : Jane Seymour , Jacqueline McKenzie , Coco Jack Gillies
- Director : Michael Budd
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Vision Films
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Empathy , Perseverance
- Run time : 117 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : May 9, 2024
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