Common Sense Media Review
By Ashley Moulton
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
So-so special rehashes first lady's familiar stories.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Light We Carry: Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In THE LIGHT WE CARRY: MICHELLE OBAMA AND OPRAH WINFREY, cameras capture one of Obama's book tour appearances. The special was filmed at the Los Angeles stop of the tour, and Winfrey interviews Obama about the themes of her second book, The Light We Carry. Obama wrote the book during the COVID-19 pandemic, and much of the interview's focus is on her introspective takeaways from that time. She also shares some behind-the-scenes stories of her life as first lady and after leaving the White House.
Is It Any Good?
Somehow this special features two of the most likable and charismatic celebrities in the United States and is mostly boring. The Light We Carry does have some moments of insight and stories that may resonate with teenagers, but much of Obama's interview responses are stories recycled from her first book, Becoming. The interview references some self-help strategies in the book, but it's vague enough that viewers would have to read the book to fully understand (which is probably the point). Obama is somewhat transparent about her own thoughts and feelings, but her interview responses feel like rehearsed stump speech sound bites. Those that idolize Obama may enjoy the film version of her first book tour more than this ho-hum interview.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Obama's emphasis on connecting with people in your community. Do you think you have enough deep friendships and connections in your life? How do you think you could foster more?
Even though Obama is a former first lady, do you find any part of her life relatable to yours? Do you see any of your own story in hers?
TV Details
- Premiere date : April 26, 2023
- Cast : Michelle Obama , Oprah Winfrey
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Variety Show
- TV rating :
- Last updated : May 14, 2023
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