Embrace

Embrace

movie

2016

WISE
88%

WISE Score

100

Avg. Tomatometer

A powerful, global antidote to the 'perfection' trap that helps viewers stop hating their bodies and start living in them.

RT Critics100%
Common Sense Media
Where to Watch
Loading streaming options...
Screenwise Verdict

Embrace is essential viewing for the Instagram and TikTok generation. In a world where every image is filtered and every body is 'optimized,' this film is a necessary splash of cold water. It isn't just about 'loving yourself'; it's about the radical act of refusing to hate yourself for profit.

While the TV-MA rating might scare some off, the 'mature' content is just... human bodies. If your kid is already seeing the hyper-sexualized versions of bodies in media, they deserve to see the real, un-retouched, and diverse versions presented here. It's a conversation-starter that actually matters.

Age Fit

Best for ages 11 and up. This is the prime window when kids—especially girls, but not exclusively—start absorbing toxic beauty standards. The nudity is anatomical and honest, making it a great 'de-mystifying' watch for mature tweens and teens.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
92

It is built entirely on the foundation of self-compassion and dismantling toxic social comparisons. It models a healthy, appreciative relationship with the human body.

Imaginative
60

As a documentary, it's more about reality than fantasy, but it does an excellent job of reframing the 'body as an ornament' into 'body as a vehicle' through creative global storytelling.

Safe
72

Features significant non-sexual nudity (anatomical, diverse bodies, breastfeeding, surgery) and frank discussions about eating disorders. It's safe for its purpose, but not 'clean' in a traditional sense.

Enriching
96

Directly addresses the mental health crisis of body loathing. It provides a massive perspective shift for anyone growing up in a world of filters and curated perfection.

Parent Info

Why It Might Be Great

  • Counter-cultural message that directly fights the algorithmically-driven body dysmorphia kids face on social media.
  • Global perspective showing that body loathing isn't just a local issue, but a systemic one fueled by the beauty industry.
  • Authentic vulnerability from Taryn Brumfitt, who isn't a polished influencer but a real person sharing a raw journey.
  • Actionable mindset shift from seeing the body as an 'ornament' to be looked at to a 'vehicle' for experiencing life.

What to Watch For

  • Extensive nudity throughout, though it is entirely non-sexual. You'll see breasts, pubic hair, and bodies of every imaginable shape and size in a clinical or naturalistic context.
  • Surgery footage including a brief, graphic scene of a labiaplasty that might be a lot for the squeamish.
  • Heavy topics like eating disorders, depression, and the impact of sexual harassment are discussed openly.
  • Language is generally mild but includes occasional frank terms related to anatomy and body shaming.

Conversation Starters

  • "Which person in the film had a story that surprised you the most?"
  • "Taryn talks about the body as a vehicle vs. an ornament. How does that change how you think about your own 'vehicle'?"
  • "Why do you think companies benefit from making us feel like our bodies aren't good enough?"
  • "If you could delete one beauty standard from the world tomorrow, which would it be?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic