Paper Planes (2014)
Synopsis:
Dylan is a young boy who discovers an unexpected talent for making paper planes, a skill that opens up an exciting opportunity to compete in a world championship competition. However, his journey to the top won't be easy. Along the way, Dylan must navigate the challenges of dealing with bullies who try to discourage him and overcome his own self-doubt that threatens to hold him back. With support from his father Jack and grandfather, Dylan learns valuable lessons about perseverance and believing in himself. As he faces competitors from around the world, including skilled paper plane makers like Kimi and Jason, Dylan discovers that success isn't just about winning—it's about having the courage to keep trying even when things get tough.
Where To Watch: Paper Planes
Parental Feedback
Paper Planes offers a gentle, heartwarming tone that balances lighthearted moments with emotional depth as it follows a young boy's journey through personal challenges. Parents should expect a family-friendly pacing that allows quieter character moments to breathe alongside the excitement of competition, with themes of grief, perseverance, and self-discovery woven throughout. The humor remains age-appropriate and the intensity stays moderate, making it accessible for younger viewers while still engaging older children with its sincere emotional beats.
Why Kids Should Watch Paper Planes
This family drama provides several meaningful lessons wrapped in an engaging story about pursuing unexpected talents.
The film celebrates creativity and finding passion in unconventional places, showing how Dylan discovers his unique gift for making paper planes and pursues it despite initial doubts. It demonstrates that talent can emerge from the simplest activities when approached with dedication and imagination.
Strong themes of perseverance shine through as Dylan faces both external challenges from bullies and internal struggles with self-doubt on his path to the world championship. The story reinforces that success requires pushing through obstacles and believing in oneself even when others question your abilities.
The cast delivers authentic performances, with Ed Oxenbould bringing genuine emotion to Dylan's journey and Sam Worthington portraying his father Jack with depth. Supporting characters like Maureen, played by Deborah Mailman, and fellow competitors Kevin and Kimi add warmth and dimension to the narrative.
The film's positive critical reception, including an 85% Rotten Tomatoes rating, reflects its quality storytelling and ability to resonate with both children and adults. Its blend of comedy, family dynamics, and drama creates an engaging viewing experience that maintains interest throughout its runtime.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch Paper Planes
While generally family-friendly, there are a few considerations parents should weigh before viewing.
The story deals with themes of grief and loss that may be emotionally challenging for very young or sensitive children. Dylan's personal struggles include processing difficult family circumstances that could require parental guidance to help younger viewers understand and process.
Bullying is depicted as Dylan faces antagonism from characters like Jason, which might be upsetting for children who have experienced similar situations. Parents may need to be prepared to discuss how the film portrays these conflicts and their resolutions.
The emotional intensity of certain scenes, while handled appropriately, may still prove confusing or overwhelming for children under a certain age who aren't yet equipped to process complex feelings. The balance between lighthearted competition and deeper personal challenges requires a level of emotional maturity to fully appreciate.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Paper Planes earns approval as an uplifting family film that handles meaningful themes with care while delivering an inspiring story about determination, creativity, and overcoming self-doubt.
What Parents Should Know About Paper Planes
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, Dylan demonstrates perseverance, dedication to improving his craft, and the courage to pursue his dreams despite facing bullies and personal challenges. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, the film explores themes of grief and family struggles that may require parental guidance for younger viewers to process appropriately. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, bullying behavior is portrayed negatively and the story demonstrates how perseverance and self-belief can overcome the negativity of others. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, through Dylan's interactions with characters like Maureen, Kevin, and Kimi, the film shows the value of support, friendship, and learning from others. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | Yes, the film's tagline "If at first you don't succeed, fly, fly again" encapsulates its core message about persistence, believing in yourself, and finding your unique talents. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents generally appreciate Paper Planes for its wholesome approach to storytelling and its ability to engage children while delivering meaningful life lessons. The film's balance of humor and heart resonates with families, with many noting that it successfully addresses serious themes like grief and self-doubt in an age-appropriate manner. The strong performances, particularly from the young lead, and the unique premise of competitive paper plane flying keep children entertained while the underlying messages about perseverance and creativity provide valuable teaching moments. Most families find it suitable for elementary-age children and older, though parents of very young or sensitive viewers recommend watching together to help process the emotional elements.
Official Paper Planes Trailer
Why Kids Love Paper Planes
Dylan turns ordinary notebook paper into precision flying machines, experimenting with folds and angles until his planes soar farther than anyone expects. Kids love watching him tinker and test different designs, figuring out the perfect wing shape and weight balance to beat the competition.
The movie delivers edge-of-your-seat moments during the paper plane contests, where Dylan's creations zip through the air in slow-motion glory. Each throw becomes a mini-adventure as planes loop, glide, and race toward distant targets, with every fold and flick of the wrist mattering.
Dylan faces off against tough competitors like Jason and meets fellow flyer Kimi, turning rivals into allies as they share folding secrets and cheer each other on. The championship scenes crank up the excitement with crowds cheering and planes sailing across massive indoor arenas.
Grandpa and Dylan's dad Jack add humor and heart, helping him practice throws and build confidence between rounds. Kevin provides comic relief as Dylan's buddy, and the whole crew works together to help Dylan reach the world championship, proving that even the simplest paper creation can fly to incredible heights.