Common Sense Media Review
By Tracey Petherick
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Family drama veers between irritating and heart-wrenching.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Tru Confessions
What's the Story?
TRU CONFESSIONS follows the story of young teenager Tru (Clara Bryant) and her twin brother Eddie (Shia LaBeouf) who has a developmental disability. Tru wants to become a broadcast journalist and when the opportunity arises to enter a competition with a local TV channel she grabs it, deciding to make a documentary about Eddie. As she puts together her film, she is forced to examine her life and relationships, gradually beginning to appreciate how she feels about her parents, her brother, and the different ways in which they each cope with family life.
Is It Any Good?
LaBeouf is the shining star in this made-for-TV Disney movie from 2002, playing developmentally-disabled teen Eddie with warmth and authenticity. This tender performance is the movie's saving grace, although -- be warned -- it's also the source of several tear-jerking moments. As his twin sister Tru, Bryant puts in a solid performance, but unfortunately her character is so irritating it's difficult to warm to her. She's rude to her Mom, blames her Dad for working too hard, and loses her temper with her brother.
Perhaps Tru Confessions is meant to give an insight into the challenges of growing up with a disabled sibling, but her endless navel gazing, obsession with filming herself, and lack of appreciation for her comfortable home and loving family make Tru the kind of person you just can't feel sorry for. It's not all misery and self pity -- we see the loving bond between the siblings, and Tru does just about redeem herself by the end. But the constant flow of negative emotion prevents this well-intended story from bringing any real joy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how disability is portrayed in Tru Confessions. How are people with disabilities or who are "different" usually treated in TV and movies? Do you think movies do a good job of representing people with disabilities? Do you know anyone with a disability who has a story you'd like to see in a movie or on TV?
Discuss the relationship between Tru and Eddie. What role does Tru play in Eddie's life? Do you know anyone who is a young carer? What responsibilities do young carers have? How can this role be a positive experience as well as a challenge?
Talk to your kids about the benefits of writing a diary or making a video diary. How does it provide an opportunity to express yourself and make sense of your thoughts and feelings?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : April 5, 2002
- Cast : Clara Bryant , Shia LaBeouf , Mare Winningham
- Director : Paul Hoen
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Disney Channel Original Movies
- Genre : Drama
- Run time : 83 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : April 29, 2022
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