Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is the rare Disney sports biopic that actually works. It's inspiring without being manipulative, historical without being boring, and earnest without being cringe.

The story of Gertrude Ederle swimming the English Channel in 1926 is genuinely remarkable, and the film does it justice. The ratings speak for themselves—88% critics, 96% audience on Rotten Tomatoes. That audience score is particularly telling: people actually liked watching this.

It's not going to blow anyone's mind with cinematic innovation, but it doesn't need to. It's a well-crafted, emotionally satisfying film about perseverance and breaking barriers. The period sexism is handled well—shown as wrong without being preachy about it.

If your kid is into sports, history, or just needs to see what real determination looks like, this is a solid pick. If they need explosions every ten minutes, maybe not. But for families looking for something genuinely inspiring that won't make you roll your eyes, Young Woman and the Sea delivers.

Age Fit

Best for ages 9-14, though mature 8-year-olds could handle it. Teens might find it a bit earnest but the story holds up. Really depends on whether your kid is into inspiring sports stories or prefers more action-packed fare.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

88

Inspiring biographical drama about perseverance and breaking barriers. Models determination, family support (despite some period-appropriate gender bias), and healthy competition. The tone is uplifting and emotionally mature without being saccharine. Strong positive role model in Gertrude Ederle who overcomes both physical challenges and societal expectations.

Imaginative

68

As a biographical drama, it's inherently constrained by historical events. The imaginative element comes from visualizing the 1920s era and the monumental swim itself. It may inspire kids to think about their own goals and challenges, but it's not pushing creative boundaries or inviting direct creative expression. Solid storytelling but fairly conventional in its approach.

Safe

92

Common Sense Media rates it for age 10+, which aligns with a PG-style family film. No concerning content flags from any source. The main 'unsafe' elements would be period-appropriate sexism (which is presented as wrong) and the inherent tension/danger of a long-distance swim. No violence, gore, sexual content, or truly frightening sequences. Very predictable in its safety profile for a Disney+ biographical drama.

Enriching

85

Excellent historical and biographical value. Kids learn about a real trailblazer, women's sports history, the 1920s, and the importance of persistence. Strong themes about overcoming obstacles, gender equality, and athletic achievement. The 88% RT critic score and 96% audience score suggest it's both meaningful and engaging. Provides genuine inspiration and historical context while remaining entertaining.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Genuinely inspiring story about a real-life trailblazer who broke barriers in 1926—perfect for kids who need to see what determination looks like
Strong ratings across the board (96% audience score on RT, 7.5 on IMDb) suggest this actually delivers on the Disney sports-biopic promise
Shows both the physical challenge of the swim AND the societal barriers Gertrude faced as a woman athlete, which makes for richer discussion
Not preachy or heavy-handed—just a well-told story that happens to be about an incredible achievement
Great for sports-minded kids or anyone who needs a reminder that 'impossible' is often just 'not done yet'

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What to Watch For

Period-appropriate sexism is present (men telling women they can't/shouldn't compete), which is historically accurate but might need context for younger viewers
The climactic swim sequence has some tension and danger—it's not scary, but it's meant to feel challenging and uncertain
Kids who aren't into sports or historical dramas might find it a bit slow, though the 96% audience score suggests most people stayed engaged

Conversation Starters

"What would you do if everyone told you that you couldn't do something just because of who you are?"
"Why do you think it was such a big deal for a woman to swim the English Channel in 1926? How is that different from today?"
"Gertrude had to deal with people doubting her constantly. How do you handle it when people doubt you?"
"What's something really hard you've accomplished, or something you're working toward that feels impossible right now?"