I Can Only Imagine (2018)
Synopsis:
Growing up in Greenville, Texas, Bart Millard endures a difficult childhood marked by physical and emotional abuse from his father, Arthur. Their strained relationship leaves deep scars that follow Bart into adulthood. When Arthur receives a terminal illness diagnosis, he undergoes a profound transformation, finding redemption through faith and reconnecting with his son in meaningful ways. This journey of forgiveness and reconciliation becomes the foundation for Bart's future as the lead singer of Christian band MercyMe. Years later, reflecting on his troubled past and the healing that occurred between him and his father, Bart pens what becomes one of the most beloved Christian songs of all time, "I Can Only Imagine." The film explores how pain and redemption can inspire hope and creativity, showing how broken relationships can be restored through faith and love.
Where To Watch: I Can Only Imagine
Parental Feedback
I Can Only Imagine (2018) carries an emotionally intense tone centered on themes of childhood trauma, physical and emotional abuse, terminal illness, and faith-based redemption. Parents should expect a slower-paced, deeply emotional narrative that deals with difficult family dynamics and the journey toward forgiveness and healing. The story balances heavy dramatic moments with uplifting themes of reconciliation and hope, making it a film that requires emotional readiness from viewers.
Why Kids Should Watch I Can Only Imagine (2018)
This faith-based drama offers several meaningful lessons for families seeking content with strong moral themes.
The story powerfully demonstrates the possibility of redemption and forgiveness, showing how Arthur finds faith and reconnects with his son Bart despite years of difficult behavior. This illustrates that people can change and relationships can heal even after significant hurt.
The narrative celebrates the power of faith and perseverance, following Bart Millard's journey from a troubled childhood in Greenville, Texas, to becoming the singer of the Christian band MercyMe. His story shows how personal struggles can inspire meaningful creative expression.
The film emphasizes the importance of family reconciliation, depicting how Bart's mended relationship with his father becomes a source of inspiration. This demonstrates that working through family difficulties can lead to profound personal growth and healing.
The musical elements provide an uplifting counterpoint to the dramatic themes, showcasing the creation of the hit song that gives the story its title. This blend of music and drama offers an engaging way to explore serious topics.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch I Can Only Imagine (2018)
Parents should carefully consider several challenging aspects before viewing with younger children.
The depiction of physical and emotional abuse at the hands of Arthur toward his son Bart is a central element of the story. These scenes may be disturbing or triggering for sensitive viewers or children who have experienced similar situations.
The theme of terminal illness and the portrayal of Arthur's declining health introduces heavy emotional content that younger children may find difficult to process. The subject matter requires maturity to understand and may raise difficult questions about mortality.
The overall emotional intensity and serious dramatic tone may be overwhelming for children expecting lighter entertainment. The focus on trauma, suffering, and the long journey toward healing creates a viewing experience that demands emotional resilience from the audience.
Verdict: Parent Approved
I Can Only Imagine (2018) is parent approved for mature children and teens who can handle emotionally intense content about abuse, illness, and redemption, particularly in families seeking faith-based stories about forgiveness and healing.
What Parents Should Know About I Can Only Imagine (2018)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, the story ultimately models forgiveness, faith, perseverance through hardship, and the power of reconciliation between family members. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, the depictions of abuse, terminal illness, and the complex emotional journey of healing may be confusing or overwhelming for younger or sensitive children. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, the story shows how Arthur's abusive behavior damages his relationship with Bart and creates lasting emotional wounds, though redemption comes through faith and changed behavior. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, the narrative emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness, making amends for past wrongs, and working together as a band and family unit. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | Yes, the central message focuses on the power of faith, the possibility of redemption, and how forgiveness can heal even the deepest family wounds. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents generally appreciate the faith-based themes and powerful message of redemption in I Can Only Imagine (2018), noting that it provides meaningful conversation starters about forgiveness and healing. Many families value the true story behind the popular Christian song and find the journey from trauma to triumph inspiring. However, parents consistently advise caution regarding the intense depictions of abuse and the emotionally heavy subject matter, recommending the content primarily for mature tweens, teens, and adults rather than younger children. The PG rating is noted as potentially misleading given the serious themes, and families are encouraged to preview or discuss the content beforehand to ensure age-appropriateness and emotional readiness.
Official I Can Only Imagine Trailer
Why Kids Love I Can Only Imagine
Kids love hearing Bart belt out catchy tunes as he performs with his Christian band MercyMe. The music pulses through every scene, and watching characters sing their hearts out on stage creates an energetic vibe that keeps young viewers tapping their feet.
Bart's journey from Greenville, Texas to becoming a real singer feels like watching someone prove they can make it big. Kids cheer when he takes the microphone and shows what he's made of, transforming his experiences into the hit song that gives the movie its name.
The bond between Bart and his father Arthur adds emotional weight as kids see how helping someone in need can change everything. When Arthur embraces faith and rediscovers his love for his son, the connection between them becomes something kids can root for.
Young audiences connect with Bart's determination to succeed with MercyMe alongside bandmates like Mike and Nathan. Watching him work with producer Brickell and navigate the music world shows kids what it takes to turn a dream into reality, making every performance feel like a victory.