Disney+ SAFETY Parent Movie Review

Inspired by a true story, Disney+’s SAFETY has a powerful message of the relationship between family and team. Is this feature film kid-friendly? I’m breaking down all of the thematic elements in my Disney+ SAFETY Parent Movie Review to help YOU decide if it’s appropriate for kids. As always, no spoilers!

Disney+ SAFETY Parent Movie Review

When I first viewed the trailer for Disney Plus’ SAFETY, I was immediately drawn in. I don’t know about you, but I love myself a GOOD sports movie. I also enjoy when a sports movie offers something other than “just the game.” It needs to have a good supporting storyline. If it’s just about a football game, I can watch that on TV. But a sports film WITH an inspiring story? Yes, please!

Disney+’s SAFETY is based on the story of Clemson University football player, Ray McElrathbey. Ray has defied the odds against him growing up. He exhibits strong perseverance and has pushed himself to get where he is, and is attending college with a scholarship. His character is strong and admirable. Despite overcoming many obstacles in life, he doesn’t want any handouts. He makes it known he is capable of taking care of not only himself, but also his 11 year old brother, Fahmarr.

Safety is a Movie about Brothers

I’m a mom of two boys, ages 7 and 11. Although the age difference between Ray and Fahmarr is a bit larger than my boys, I LOVED seeing a film about brothers.

From the opening scene, it is evident how much Ray cares for his younger brother. The first thing he does in his dorm room, is hang up a photo of Fahmarr.

When his mother has to attend a rehabilitation program for 30 days, Ray decides to take care of Fahmarr. He doesn’t want his brother in foster care. This leads to him hiding Fahmarr on campus. Of course it’s difficult to hide an 11 year old boy in a dorm room, and even with the help of his teammates, the school quickly finds out. This leads to more challenges and hard decisions for Ray.

I don’t want to tell you too many details because there is such a good story within this film. You need to take it all in for yourself. I was immediately drawn in from the moment I started to watch it. I admired Ray and his strong dedication to Fahmarr. He’s not only his brother, but ultimately the only positive father figure he’s ever had. He certainly treats him and loves him the way a parent should…continuously putting his needs before his own. Witnessing the bond and love between the two brothers is inspirational.

Safety is about what it means to be a Team

Being apart of a team, is being apart of a family. I cannot tell you how much I loved that the whole team rallied and supported Ray and Fahmarr. Not once did they question Ray’s choice to care for his brother. They stood by the both of them, 110%. Coaches and teammates are not just connected when they’re on the field. They’re brothers. They’re united and lookout for one another.

Is Safety on Disney Plus Kid-Friendly?

Should your kids see Safety? Is it something they will enjoy? Is it a kids movie? I’m going to answer all of these questions and more in my Disney+ Safety Parent’s Guide. Let’s go!

Disney+’s Safety is rated PG for thematic content involving drug addiction, and some language. It has a runtime of 2 hours. There is very little romance in this movie. Ray does meet a girl, Kaycee, and they become close friends and go on a date. They are clearly interested in each other, but their relationship isn’t a major theme in this movie.

I’m going to tell you right off the bat that this movie is not for little kids. And although it’s only rated PG, I would suggest that this film is best for the more mature tween crowd and teenagers. My oldest son just turned 11 years old. He’s very mature for his age, and I think he’d appreciate this storyline. However, I wouldn’t even chance this movie with my 7 year old. It’s just not made for little ones. I’m going to suggest ages 10 and up would most likely enjoy this one. But again, a lot of it is based on maturity level. While there is football in this movie, this is NOT a movie about football. Keep that in mind.

Heavy Topics in Safety

Ray and Fahmarr’s mother is a drug addict, and although she is attending an inpatient rehab program, this clearly impacts the brothers. She also puts a lot of pressure on Ray by asking him to promise to always be there for his brother. I’m not suggesting that Ray shouldn’t have accepted responsibility to care for Fahmarr, but for a parent to place that responsibility on her child, is just incredibly backwards.

This theme of drug use and abandonment could be upsetting and triggering for children who have experienced these situations.

There is also a scene between a mother, her child, and a social worker. The social worker tells the mother her son has to temporarily go into foster care. They literally have to tear her away from her child, crying hysterically. Although we don’t fully know the circumstances for why she is losing her child, it will still tug at your heart. As a mother, I cannot even imagine being ripped apart from my children. It would break me.

Overall Thoughts

This movie surprised me in the best way possible. I loved the promise of it when I first saw the trailer, but it literally blew me away. Safety isn’t just another football movie. It’s so much more. It’s about what it means to be a part of something bigger than yourself. It will inspire you to want to be better…to do better.

Disney+’s Safety comes to us at the perfect time. The world needs this powerful and uplifting story now more than ever. The fact that this movie is based on a true story makes it even more empowering. Family is truly everything. You can stream Safety exclusively on Disney Plus, December 11th. You won’t want to miss this one!

Side note: Watch the end credits for real life footage and interviews from Clemson University and Ray and Fahmarr McElrathbey.

DISNEY+ SAFETY SYNOPSIS:

“Safety” is a drama inspired by the empowering story of former Clemson University football safety Ray McElrathbey (Jay Reeves), a young man facing a series of challenging circumstances, whose dedication and persistence help him to triumph over repeated adversities. Aided by his teammates and the Clemson community, he succeeds on the field while simultaneously raising and caring for his 11-year-old brother Fahmarr (Thaddeus J. Mixson).

I hope you found this Disney+ Safety parent movie review helpful. Will you be streaming on December 11th?

Looking for more Disney+ original films? You’ll love these popular posts:

Follow Safety on Social Media:

Looking for more on Disney Plus’ Safety movie? You’ll love these inspirational quotes!

Disney+ SAFETY Parent Movie Review