Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Morgan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Bullying, sexist stereotypes in beauty influencer drama.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
True Beauty: The Movie
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
TRUE BEAUTY: THE MOVIE is a two-part Japanese film adaptation of the popular Korean anime, and then live action, show of the same name. Reina, a teenager who's bullied for her acne, reinvents herself through makeup after finding solace in the world of beauty influencers. When she starts fresh at a new school, she becomes the center of attention—especially from two boys with a complicated past. As gossip swirls and secrets unravel, Reina must navigate romance, bullying, and establishing her new identity.
Is It Any Good?
While the lead characters are likable, the message of the movie is fundamentally terrible for it's preteen and teen girl viewers. Despite its name, most of True Beauty: The Movie reinforces the idea that Reina is only worthy of attention after transforming her looks. In fact, there are only two people who tell her otherwise throughout the film. The plot is also heavy-handed, with her bully showing up to unearth secrets in implausible ways. Some storylines do come together toward the end, particularly Shun's, but the overwhelming focus on beauty along with the harmful gender stereotypes send very mixed messages to young viewers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the difference between improving your confidence and changing who you are.
Talk about the how the movie feeds into female stereotypes.
Talk about the bullying that Reina experiences and how it's dealt with by her teachers and family. What should you do if you experience bullying or see others experience it?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : October 17, 2025
- Cast : Koki , Keisuke Watanabe , Keito Tsuna
- Director : Kazunari Hoshino
- Inclusion Information : Asian Movie Director(s) , Japanese Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s) , Japanese Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : HBO
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School )
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 22, 2025
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