Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is one of those earnest, well-intentioned documentaries that checks all the right boxes for enriching content but realistically might be a tough sell for modern kids.

The subject matter is important—following Hispanic girls navigating poverty and systemic barriers while trying to use soccer as their ticket to college—and it's the kind of story that builds empathy and awareness. But as a 2015 documentary short with limited distribution and modest production values, it's going to feel dry compared to what kids are used to watching.

It's solid for a classroom setting or if you're specifically looking to expose your kids to stories outside their bubble. Just don't expect them to choose this over literally anything else on Netflix. The 7/10 IMDb rating suggests it's competently made but not groundbreaking, and the 'Comedy' genre tag seems like a database error—this appears to be straight documentary.

If you can find it and your kid is interested in social justice, sports, or documentary filmmaking, it's worth 20-30 minutes. Otherwise, there are more engaging ways to have these conversations.

Age Fit

Best for middle schoolers (11+) who can grasp systemic inequality and appreciate documentary storytelling. Younger kids may struggle with the format and themes, while high schoolers will get the most from the social justice angle.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

82

Documentary following a Hispanic girls soccer team navigating inner-city challenges shows resilience, teamwork, and determination. The focus on young women supporting each other through real obstacles models healthy relationships and perseverance without sugarcoating their reality.

Imaginative

58

As a documentary short, it presents real stories rather than imaginative content. While it may inspire viewers to think about social justice and educational access, it's primarily observational rather than creative or exploratory in nature.

Safe

88

Documentary format about high school soccer is inherently safe viewing. No content warnings flagged, though real-life challenges facing inner-city teens may include discussions of poverty, limited opportunities, and systemic barriers. The IMDb 7/10 suggests solid execution without sensationalism.

Enriching

79

Strong educational value in exposing viewers to the realities of educational inequality and the role of sports in creating opportunities for underserved communities. Builds empathy and awareness of systemic challenges, though as a short film its depth may be limited.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Shows authentic stories of young women fighting for their futures through sports and education
Builds empathy and awareness about educational inequality and systemic barriers
Positive portrayal of teamwork, resilience, and community support
Could spark important family conversations about privilege, opportunity, and perseverance

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What to Watch For

Documentary format may feel slow or dry for kids used to high-energy content
Real-world challenges (poverty, limited opportunities) require context for younger viewers
As a 2015 short film, availability is limited and production values are modest
Listed as 'Comedy' in genres but appears to be serious documentary—metadata confusion

Conversation Starters

"What challenges do these girls face that might be different from what your friends deal with?"
"How does playing on a team help these students work toward their goals?"
"Why do you think access to good schools and opportunities isn't the same for everyone?"
"If you were making a documentary about your school, what stories would you tell?"

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