Breakthrough

Parents need to know that Breakthrough is a faith-based drama based on the true story of a teen boy's miraculous recovery from a near-fatal accident. Even though viewers can feel secure about the positive outcome, the peril is palpable for most of the film -- especially during a sequence in which three teens fall through thin ice into frigid water -- and may be too intense for young kids. (Heck, it could be too intense for many parents: A box of tissues is recommended.) The boy, who was adopted as a baby, struggles with feelings of rejection and identity; he continually describes himself as "unwanted," which could be triggering for families touched by adoption. The main characters are good people who are quite human, trying their best, persevering, learning, and evolving; they also learn and express gratitude and humility. With its faith-based message, the movie is most directly targeted at devout viewers, but given that the events really happened, the film's take on the power of prayer may leave some skeptics thinking twice. Executive-produced by NBA star Stephen Curry, the movie stars Chrissy Metz and Topher Grace.