Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Family adventure predictable but has bright ideas; peril.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Lightning Code
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE LIGHTNING CODE tells the story of Miles Fletcher (Andrew Reid), a teen inventor who's determined to finish his late mother's work: building a perpetual, sustainable energy machine and sharing it with the world. But when a greedy energy company seizes Miles' invention to use it as a weapon, he has to lean on family and friends to fight back before it's too late.
Is It Any Good?
This lighthearted and family-friendly—but ultimately forgettable—sci-fi adventure isn't exactly electrifying, with its thin plot, predictable characters, and low-budget CGI. But with a few bright spots and ideas, The Lightning Code sparks enough momentum for a new generation of innovative, energy-conscious kids, and overall squeaks by as a watchable family film.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the dangers of power and greed in The Lightning Code. Why was Miles' invention so alluring to the Luxos Company? Why is the production of limitless energy possibly dangerous?
Based on this sci-fi film, do you think that the Luxos Company made good decisions to end the world's energy crisis? What would you have done differently?
At his lowest point, Miles loses his temper with his friends. Can you remember a time when your temper exploded? Do you think that Miles did the right thing after? What would you have done?
Movie Details
- In theaters : May 9, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : June 10, 2025
- Cast : Rose Reid , Bruce Davison , K.C. Clyde , Andrew Reid
- Director : Kali Bailey
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Family Movie Events
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : STEM , Adventures
- Character Strengths : Courage , Curiosity , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 88 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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