Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Funny, feel-good movie has excellent messages for kids.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
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Invisible Sister
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 6 parent reviews
Based on 11 kid reviews
Kids say that this TV show offers a nostalgic experience, especially for those who watched it in their childhood, while others found the storyline charming yet lacking some appeal for younger viewers. The themes of sisterhood and friendship are highlighted, although some critiques note predictable character arcs and clichés that diminish its overall impact.
- nostalgic experience
- charming storyline
- predictable character arcs
- themes of sisterhood
- lacks appeal
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In INVISIBLE SISTER, high school wiz kid Cleo (Rowan Blanchard) has grown used to living in the shadow of her popular older sister, Molly (Paris Berelc). but when a mishap with her science experiment accidentally turns Molly invisible, Cleo has to step into her shoes for a day. Suddenly, the normally withdrawn Cleo is thrust into the middle of Molly's relationship with her boyfriend, the Coug (Austin Fryberger); team bonding with the lacrosse players; and the most important game of Molly's high school career, all while desperately searching for an antidote to Molly's invisibility.
Is It Any Good?
Disney stacks the deck with relevant stars to entice viewers, but even this talented cast is overshadowed by a delightful, engaging story that's rich in feel-good messages. Putting a Freaky Friday kind of spin on the woes of sibling rivalry, Invisible Sister has Cleo literally walk the proverbial mile in her sister's shoes. Predictably this yields many funny moments (playing lacrosse for the first time in front of college scouts, for instance), but it also teaches each sister a lot about the other and vastly improves their relationship.
It's not always easy to find teen girl characters who aren't catty or conniving, let alone who find strength in their families and take pride in their achievements rather than in social standing. Cleo and Molly vie for top honors in this sweet movie that's great for families, but ultimately both learn equally valuable lessons.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about getting along with siblings. Why is it sometimes hard to do? What do you like to do with your brothers and sisters? Do you share common interests? How do Molly and Cleo get along in Invisible Sister?
Kids: What qualities make you unique within your family and among your friends? Does it ever feel uncomfortable to be different from the crowd? Can you relate to how Cleo describes feeling invisible?
In what ways does this movie benefit from a well-known cast? Did that entice you to watch? Which character learned the most valuable lesson, in your opinion?
How do the characters in Invisible Sister demonstrate empathy? Why is this an important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date : October 9, 2015
- Cast : Rowan Blanchard , Karan Brar , Paris Berlec
- Network : Disney Channel
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Empathy
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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