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Parents' Guide to

The Crash Reel

By Kari Croop, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Pro snowboarder's rise and fall is sobering and inspiring.

Movie NR 2014 108 minutes
The Crash Reel Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Community Reviews

age 11+

Based on 1 parent review

age 11+

More rehab than snowboarding.

This doco was engaging for my 11yo but the 9yo got bored. Makes you think about impulsivity, safety, what drives people to win. Themes of family sacrifice, friendship and mental health as well. Small amount of drinking. No sex.

This title has:

Great messages

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1 ):
Kids say: Not yet rated

Even if you think you have zero interest in snowboarding and other extreme sports, this riveting documentary will quickly change your mind. The movie was created by two-time Academy Award nominated filmmaker Lucy Walker (Waste Land, The Tsunami and the Cherry Blossom). It's memorable not just because of the arresting visuals of young athletes who seemingly defy gravity, flying more than 40 feet above the snow, but also because of the Pearce family's candidly emotional journey, which serves as a cautionary -- but ultimately hopeful -- tale of love and ambition.

The story is so well told, in fact, that some parents might get choked up watching Kevin and his family fight for his life. But The Crash Reel's balanced blend of action and thoughtful questioning could also get kids thinking about whether extremism in extreme sports -- or any pursuit -- is a positive trend.

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