Multiple references to, discussions about, and clips from the Harry Potter films. Clips from other films including Lost in Space and Bedazzled. Brief conversation about Dunlop Green Flash sneakers. A can of Diet Coke is seen in the background. Reference to flying first class to New York. A character jokes about spending all their (large) pay check on "sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll."
Drinking, Drugs & Smoking
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Some depiction of smoking cigars and cigarettes. This includes Daniel Radcliffe briefly lighting up a cigarette, which may surprise younger Harry Potter fans. Reference to underage drinking. People are seen drinking beer at a social function. Reference to painkillers.
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A serious accident that left a young stunt person severely paralyzed after breaking their neck is discussed at length, as are the subsequent life-changing injuries. They are seen in bed with tubes coming out of them, having body spasms, and later in painful physio sessions. They discuss the fact that their condition is getting worse. A large scar on the back of their neck is shown. Clips of stunts being performed on film sets include people being flung and thrown all over the place. Reference to someone being injured in a terrorist attack and another being stabbed in a hate crime. Several references to COVID-19, including someone dying from the virus.
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Jokey reference to spending vast sums of money of "sex, drugs, and rock 'n'roll" and being surrounded by "hot women." People are seen shirtless in a non-sexual context; gymnastics, swimming. The main character is seen showering (no sensitive parts shown).
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Sometimes you just have to be there for someone, rather than try to fix them. Friendship can be an incredibly powerful and helpful thing. Courage, perseverance, compassion, and teamwork are shown in abundance. Showing emotion and talking openly and honestly is important. Make the most of life and try to be present in the now.
Positive Role Models
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David Holmes' positive approach and outlook on life is evident both before and after his accident. He talks passionately about his job as a stuntman and how it was the only thing he ever wanted to do. He is selfless and generous, often showing more concern for others rather than himself. He shows great courage and perseverance in facing his situation but never tries to deny it's happening to him, describing his paralysis as "the gift that keeps on taking." Holmes' friends, including Daniel Radcliffe, show great care and compassion toward him. They speak lovingly of their friend and talk about his generosity and sense of adventure. The group's friendship is very inspiring with the bond between them clear for all to see.
Diverse Representations
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The documentary is about David Holmes, a young man who has suffered a major spinal injury leaving him paralyzed and in need of an electric wheelchair. While the film does't hide some of the challenges he faces, Holmes remains positive throughout, keeping the same zest for life he had prior to his accident. He never looks for sympathy, nor does the film try to force any from the viewer. Holmes and most of the talking heads are White British males.
Parents need to know that David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived is an inspiring documentary about a young stuntman whose life changed forever following an accident on the set of a Harry Potter film. David Holmes was Daniel Radcliffe's stunt double (and close friend) and the Potter star plays a prominent role in the film as he hangs out with Holmes and his fellow stunt mates. Holmes' love for life is obvious both before and after his accident, which has left him severely paralyzed and an electric wheelchair user. Holmes' accident is discussed at length, as are his injuries. He is shown with a serious scar on his neck, having physio (which causes him pain), and needing the help of his friends to get from one place to another. The relationship between the group of male friends is full of compassion and support, with Holmes being the instigator for this positivity. He talks passionately about his career and remains grateful for the experiences he's had and for those that are to come. The film is careful not to evoke sympathy for Holmes -- he doesn't come across as any kind of victim -- but the film is an emotional watch. There is strong language throughout, including variants of "f--k," reference to someone dying from COVID-19, and some smoking (including by Radcliffe). To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails.
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What's the Story?
DAVID HOLMES: THE BOY WHO LIVED is a documentary about Daniel Radcliffe's stunt double on the Harry Potter films who suffered life-changing injuries after an accident on set.
This documentary about a young stunt man who broke his neck on the set of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 could have been very different had it not been for its star's unbreakable spirit. As tragic as the accident was, it's impossible to walk away from David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived without feeling inspired and with a new appreciation for life. Radcliffe may initially pull the viewers in, but he's more than happy to take a back seat, letting his close friend take center stage. Indeed the bond between Holmes and all his friends is incredibly touching. But Holmes is the star here and what's clear from the behind-the-scenes footage is that he always was. Someone who Radcliffe refers to as an older brother, Holmes' fearlessness and generosity stands out, from the early home footage to his interactions with his nurses and physios. Of course it's heartbreaking to see someone so young being prevented from doing something they so clearly loved. But neither Holmes nor the film ever calls for our sympathy. Indeed the only call to action is one to live your life the best you can, surrounding yourself with the best friends you can find.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the positive messages in David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived. How would you describe David Holmes' outlook to life, both before and after his accident? Would you describe him as a positive role model? Why, or why not? What makes a good role model?
What character strengths did both Holmes and his friends display during the film? Can you think of a time when you've shown these traits?
If you could take one piece of advice or life lesson from the film, what would that be?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
By Danny Brogan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
