Common Sense Media Review
By Kat Halstead
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
New Zealand coming-of-age tale has themes of racism.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Uproar
What's the Story?
In UPROAR, the arrival of the South African rugby team in New Zealand in 1981 provokes a wave of protests about apartheid, as well as racism toward Indigenous people in New Zealand itself. Seventeen-year-old student Josh (Julian Dennison) has kept his head down for most of his life, fitting in with his mother, Shirley's (Minnie Driver), plans for a secure future. But he gradually starts to explore his Māori heritage, as well as his own dreams, figuring out where he fits in and what he's willing to fight for.
Is It Any Good?
New Zealander Dennison previously garnered attention in Taika Waititi's Hunt for the Wilderpeople back in 2016, proving himself incredibly watchable and landing some notable roles as a result. In Uproar, he really comes into his own, showing a breadth of acting that makes a heartfelt impact in this coming-of-age tale. His performance of the haka in front of a video camera is particularly moving, and both he and his teen friends naturally portray the difficulty of finding themselves on the cusp of adulthood—discovering their passions and learning to weigh up the rules with their morals. It's about figuring out identity and allowing for complexity within that—one minute happily joking, the next retreating into themselves, and then fired up to fight for their beliefs. There are clear messages about the treatment of Māori and other Indigenous people in New Zealand, as well as the protection that institutions offer privileged White people from very early on in life. But just like the inside of Josh's head, these important issues are mixed in with moments of humor, warmth, and a great 1980s soundtrack. The film isn't one thing or another, but nor does it need to be. It's an engaging and affecting story of confusion, anger, bravery, and rebellion, but also of love, freedom, and joy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Josh's journey in Uproar. What did he learn about himself, his heritage, and the world around him? What decisions did he make about who he was and how he acted?
How did the film portray New Zealand in the early 1980s? How were White and Indigenous—here, particularly Māori and Samoan—characters treated? How do you think that compares to today?
How did Josh show integrity, courage, and perseverance? Did he have these character strengths through the whole film or did they develop? Why are they important and can you think of times you've used any of them in your life?
Discuss the strong and racist language used in the movie. Did it seem necessary, or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie? How to talk with kids about racism and racial violence.
Movie Details
- In theaters : March 15, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : June 25, 2024
- Cast : Julian Dennison , Minnie Driver , Rhys Darby
- Directors : Paul Middleditch , Hamish Bennett
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Blue Fox Entertainment
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Activism , Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship , School ( High School ) , History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity , Perseverance
- Run time : 110 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic material involving racism, strong language, some violence and a crude gesture
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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