Common Sense Media Review
By Tracy Moore
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Horse drama deals with heavy themes of family separation.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Storm Rider
What's the Story?
When Dani's (Danielle Chuchran) father is sent to jail for securities fraud, she's forced to sell her beloved horse Admiral, separate from her half-brother Jordan, and move out to the sticks to live with a relative. At first, it appears she's lost everything. But with the help of her Uncle Sam (Kevin Sorbo), his friend Jody (Kristy Swanson), and a gift of a mule to train, Dani develops a new sense of the meaning of family, community, and loyalty.
Is It Any Good?
STORM RIDER is a heartfelt drama set in an idyllic, rustic backdrop that explores family struggles through a strong-willed female lead character. It shows positive mentoring and strong messages about family, loyalty, and perseverance. Unfortunately, the overwrought score means it's exceptionally heavy-handed, even when it doesn't have to be, which gives it a sentimentality that drips with every turn. Plus, the imprisoned father and separated family give this an overall heavy theme. Kids will appreciate the horse- and mule-training and the countryside, and parents can appreciate the positive depictions of outdoor activities, goal-setting, honoring commitments, and the way families can recombine in adversity for the better.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about different forms a family can take. What are different types of families you know? How would you describe your family?
How are different breeds of horses treated in the film? How is their treatment related to their perceived intelligence?
Perseverance is an important theme in the movie. Do you know what perseverance means? What are examples you've seen of you or someone in your life persevering?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : February 22, 2022
- Cast : Kevin Sorbo , Kristy Swanson , Danielle Chuchran , C. Thomas Howell
- Director : Craig Clyde
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : ARC Entertainment
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Animals , Friendship
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : December 5, 2025
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