Raising the Bar (2016)
Synopsis:
Kelly Johnson is a 16-year-old gymnast who makes the difficult decision to leave her elite gymnastics program behind and relocate to Australia for a fresh start. As she adjusts to her new life, Kelly befriends a local gymnast who needs her help and crosses paths with an old rival who challenges her pride. Determined to support her new friend and prove herself once more, Kelly decides to re-enter the competitive gymnastics world despite her complicated history with the sport. To succeed, she must find the courage to move forward while confronting unresolved issues from her past and making peace with the choices that led her away from gymnastics in the first place. This family drama follows Kelly's journey as she learns that true competition means competing with yourself as much as with others.
Where To Watch: Raising the Bar
Parental Feedback
Raising the Bar (2016) presents a steady, emotionally grounded story centered on competitive gymnastics, personal growth, and reconciliation. Parents can expect a family-friendly drama that balances moments of athletic tension with themes of friendship, perseverance, and making amends for past mistakes. The pacing is moderate, allowing younger viewers to follow Kelly's journey without overwhelming intensity, while the tone remains hopeful and encouraging throughout, making it accessible for families seeking uplifting content with relatable challenges.
Why Kids Should Watch Raising the Bar (2016)
Raising the Bar (2016) offers several positive elements that make it worthwhile viewing for young audiences.
The story emphasizes the importance of perseverance and personal growth, showing how Kelly re-enters competitive gymnastics despite past setbacks. This demonstrates resilience and the courage to face challenges head-on, even when circumstances are difficult.
Themes of friendship and helping others are central to the narrative, as Kelly supports a new friend while navigating her own journey. This reinforces the value of kindness and being there for others during important moments.
The gymnastics setting provides an inspiring backdrop that celebrates athleticism and dedication. Young viewers interested in sports will appreciate seeing the discipline and hard work required to compete at high levels.
The emphasis on making amends with the past teaches children about accountability and the importance of addressing mistakes. Kelly's journey shows that moving forward often requires acknowledging and resolving previous conflicts.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch Raising the Bar (2016)
While generally appropriate, there are a few considerations parents should keep in mind before viewing.
The competitive gymnastics environment may create pressure-related themes that could be intense for sensitive children. Scenes involving rivalry and the stress of competition might feel overwhelming for younger or more anxious viewers.
The storyline involves Kelly dealing with past conflicts and an old rival, which includes interpersonal tension. Some children may find these confrontational moments uncomfortable or may need guidance processing relationship challenges.
The focus on elite athletics and competition could inadvertently promote perfectionism in some children. Parents may want to discuss healthy approaches to competition and the balance between striving for excellence and self-acceptance.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Raising the Bar (2016) is a family-friendly drama that delivers positive messages about perseverance, friendship, and personal growth within an inspiring gymnastics setting.
What Parents Should Know About Raising the Bar (2016)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, Kelly demonstrates perseverance, helping friends, and taking responsibility for past mistakes, all of which are clear positive behaviors children can emulate. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | There are moments of competitive tension and interpersonal conflict related to Kelly's past that may require brief discussion with younger or sensitive children. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, the narrative addresses Kelly's need to make amends with her past, showing that actions have consequences and relationships require effort to repair. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, the story emphasizes helping friends, working through conflicts, and the importance of making amends, all valuable social skills for children. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | Yes, children will learn that perseverance, friendship, and addressing past mistakes are important steps toward personal growth and moving forward positively. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents generally view Raising the Bar (2016) as appropriate family entertainment that successfully combines sports drama with positive life lessons. Many appreciate the emphasis on personal growth, resilience, and the importance of making amends, finding these themes valuable for young viewers. The gymnastics setting is seen as inspiring, particularly for children interested in athletics, while the moderate pacing and hopeful tone make it accessible for family viewing. Some parents note that the competitive elements and interpersonal conflicts may warrant brief conversations with younger children, but overall the content is considered wholesome and encouraging, delivering clear messages about perseverance and friendship without inappropriate material.
Official Raising the Bar Trailer
Why Kids Love Raising the Bar
Kelly throws herself back into competitive gymnastics with jaw-dropping flips and high-flying routines that keep viewers glued to the screen. The training montages showcase impressive tumbling passes and balance beam sequences that demonstrate real athletic skill and daring moves.
The competition scenes deliver edge-of-your-seat tension as Kelly and her teammates perform intricate floor routines and vault sequences. Each gymnast brings their own signature style, with slow-motion shots highlighting the most spectacular aerial tricks and landings that make you want to jump up and cheer.
Kelly's determination to help her new friend Ashley creates exciting underdog moments where teamwork and quick thinking save the day. The rivalry with her past adds extra stakes to every routine, turning each performance into a thrilling showdown where one mistake could change everything.
The Australian gym setting brings fresh energy with new teammates who become Kelly's squad, working together to pull off increasingly difficult combinations. Watching them nail their routines after intense practice sessions delivers satisfying payoff moments that celebrate their hard-earned victories.