Let's be clear: this is not family movie night material. Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise is an excellent, critically-acclaimed documentary (96% on RT) that deserves its praise—but it's rated 18+ for very good reasons.

The film covers Angelou's childhood sexual assault, the racism and violence she experienced, and other heavy content that would be inappropriate and potentially harmful for younger viewers. It's not gratuitous—it's respectful and necessary to tell her story—but it requires real emotional maturity.

For the right audience (college students, older high schoolers in AP classes, adults), this is enriching, powerful, and important. It's the kind of documentary that should be part of American cultural literacy. But if you're looking for something to watch with your middle schooler, keep scrolling. Save this one for when they're genuinely ready for complex, adult conversations about trauma, resilience, and the power of art.