Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Green
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Young adults face grief in romantic dramedy; sex, language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Voicemails for Isabelle
What's the Story?
In VOICEMAILS FOR ISABELLE, Jill (Zoey Deutch) and her sister, Isabelle (Izzy) (Ciara Bravo), have a very close relationship. Because Izzy suffers from a genetic illness that keeps her largely confined to home, Jill tries to live for the two of them and brings home great stories to entertain her sister. When Izzy eventually dies, a grieving Jill continues to leave Izzy entertaining voicemails. What she doesn't know is that Izzy's phone number has been given to a new owner, Austin-based real estate agent Wes (Nick Robinson). As Wes gets more and more involved in Jill's life through her messages, he realizes he's falling in love. He flies to San Francisco to meet her, but he can't find the right moment to tell her the truth, a secret sure to come between them.
Is It Any Good?
A millennial twist on Sleepless in Seattle, this film's blend of romance, drama, and quirky comedy makes for a winning combination. Voicemails for Isabelle hinges on the likability of Deutch, who appears in most scenes. Her character is developed a whole lot more than that of love interest Wes (an equally likable Robinson), and at two hours, the film could have used some tighter editing to keep the pace more even. But Voicemails shows a very fresh voice from writer-director McKendrick (also featured in a supporting role). Her offbeat humor and frankness about young adulthood feel original and welcome.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the portrayal of young death and grief in Voicemails for Isabelle compares with that portrayal in other movies you've watched about young people facing illness and death.
What did you think of the depiction of dating as a young adult in this film? What seemed realistic? Did any parts feel overly fictionalized?
Many other movies are mentioned by characters in this film. Which ones did you recognize? Does this film have parts in common with any of those films?
The movie balances heavy themes and drama with lighter, comedic moments. Did the blending of genres work for you? Why, or why not?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : June 19, 2026
- Cast : Zoey Deutch , Nick Robinson , Nick Offerman
- Director : Leah McKendrick
- Studio : Netflix
- Genre : Romance
- Topics : Baking , Family Stories ( Dads , Moms , Siblings ) , Friendship
- Run time : 119 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : June 30, 2026
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