Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Inspiring documentary about wrestler with Crouzon syndrome.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Standout: The Ben Kjar Story
What's the Story?
STANDOUT: THE BEN KJAR STORY is a documentary that follows Ben Kjar, a man born with Crouzon syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that can lead to skull and facial differences. Despite facing what others might have viewed or labeled as limitations, Ben grows up to become a champion in wrestling, inspiring others inside the wrestling arena and beyond.
Is It Any Good?
This inspiring story is all about living courageously while handling life's adversity. In fact, because of the challenges he's faced, Ben has been able to live out his dream of becoming an athlete, a father, and an all-around everyday hero. Standout: The Ben Kjar Story is told from the point of view of Ben and his family; their faith has helped them find the positives in what many might perceive as victimhood.
The film focuses on living from a place of personal power, which is admirable and may help viewers find new ways of looking at their own personal challenges. It's possible that some disabled viewers might look at the film as reinforcing clichés by using someone's disability as a "lesson" for people without disabilities. But that perspective will truly depend on the individual viewer, and overall, Standout: The Ben Kjar Story does impart positivity to those who decide to watch it.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Standout: The Ben Kjar Story's theme of courage. How does Ben exemplify courage in his life? Does what that looks like change as he grows?
Did the movie help you feel empathy for Ben? In what ways did Ben's family support him?
How does Ben find his way into wrestling? Is there any sport (or other activity) that has helped you in a way that compares to his experiences with wrestling?
What role does faith play in Ben's life?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 23, 2026
- On DVD or streaming : March 24, 2026
- Cast : Ben Kjar , Anthony Robles , Colton Fielding
- Director : Tanner Christensen
- Inclusion Information : Latino Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Angel Studios
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Competition , Faith ( Christianity ) , Family Stories , Sports ( Wrestling )
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Empathy , Perseverance
- Run time : 99 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic material and some language
- Last updated : February 10, 2026
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate