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Parents' Guide to

Sunrise at Campobello

By Nell Minow, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Exceptional and inspiring biopic about FDR.

Movie NR 1960 144 minutes
Sunrise at Campobello Poster Image

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What's the Story?

SUNRISE AT CAMPOBELLO is the story of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (Ralph Bellamy), from the time he became disabled by polio to his comeback into mainstream politics, as he introduced candidate Al Smith to the Democratic convention of 1928. Franklin, a man of unquenchable vigor, was forced to reconsider his future when his legs became paralyzed. His friend and political advisor, Louis Howe (Hume Cronyn) tells him he has two choices: to become a "country squire" and write books, or to get up and get back into politics. His mother urges him not to overdo: "I don't want to see you hurt." He must learn patience. His compassion for others is deepened by his experience, as well. He tells his wife, Eleanor (Greer Garson) "I turned to my faith, Babs -- for strength to endure. I feel I have to go through the fire for some reason. Eleanor, it's a hard way to learn humility -- but I've learned it by crawling. I know what is meant -- you must learn to crawl before you can walk." Eleanor herself must learn, too. She has to overcome her shyness to become his eyes and ears, giving speeches and meeting people.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

SUNRISE AT CAMPOBELLO is an exceptional and inspiring story, all the more so because it's true. It also raises important questions about public service, what it means and how the public interest is best determined and best served. Franklin's mother tells him that those who are privileged owe a duty to the rest, but Franklin argues that this "noblesse oblige" notion of public service is "an excuse for indifference," and avoids the real issues of equality and opportunity. Eleanor says, "I have the naive view that you should pursue principles without calculating the consequences," and is advised dryly by Louis, "You're no politician."

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about what Mrs. Roosevelt means when she tells Franklin that "your stubbornness is not only your strength but your weakness."

  • What other stories of presidents' lives have you read or seen in movies? How does this film compare? Is it important to know about the lives of past national leaders?

  • Why was it so important that Roosevelt stand to give his speech? Would that be as important today? How did Franklin and Eleanor change as a result of his paralysis?

Movie Details

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