Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Inspiring historical biopic has some violence, language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Sarah's Oil
What's the Story?
SARAH'S OIL is based on the true story of Sarah Rector (Naya Desir-Johnson), who became one of the first Black female millionaires in the United States at the age of 11. Born in Oklahoma Indian territory in the early 1900s, Sarah is allotted 160 acres of barren land that she believes contains oceans of oil. But it will take her faith, family, and friends to help her overcome injustice, greedy oil sharks, and her own personal fears to strike it rich. Zachary Levi co-stars as oil wildcatter Bert, who helps Sarah with oil digging, obtains guardianship of her, and acts as a protector for her and her family.
Is It Any Good?
Both educational and earnestly moving, this fact-based drama balances history with heart, serving as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact that a child's courage can have on the world. This introduction to Sarah Rector is emotionally charged but still relatable, with director Cyrus Nowrasteh chronicling an inspiring, likely little-known moment in history.
But by no means is Sarah's Oil perfect. The pacing is slow at times, and historical facts are a little lean on context (especially for younger viewers), with filmmakers leaning on dramatic flair and big booms to fill in plot holes. Kids could get lost in historical confusion while trying to grasp the bigger picture, especially in the beginning as they're trying to understand the details of how Sarah obtained her land (some Indigenous people enslaved Black people). But overall, Desir-Johnson's honest, empowered performance demonstrates Sarah's quiet but firm strength to stand up to injustice.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the importance of Sarah Rector's life in terms of U.S. history. What does Sarah's Oil teach viewers about race, fairness, and opportunity? Where could you learn more?
Why is Sarah's story relevant today? What do you think the filmmakers are trying to tell contemporary viewers?
What did this film teach you about oil drilling and life in Oklahoma during the early 1900s? Did anything surprise you? How could you find out more if you wanted to?
How does Sarah demonstrate courage and integrity? Why are those important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 7, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : December 2, 2025
- Cast : Zachary Levi , Naya Desir-Johnson , Sonequa Martin-Green
- Director : Cyrus Nowrasteh
- Inclusion Information : Middle Eastern/North African Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s) , Caribbean Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Amazon MGM Studios
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Activism ( Racial justice ) , Faith ( Christianity ) , Family Stories , History ( Biopic )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity , Perseverance
- Run time : 103 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic content, some violence, language including racial slurs, a suggestive reference and brief smoking
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : November 20, 2025
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