Dickens & Rumi
Cover of King Richard

film

King Richard

2021

The story of how Richard Williams served as a coach to his daughters Venus and Serena, who will soon become two of the most legendary tennis players in history.

Ages 12+Source checked

Why this age? Generally suitable for teens, but parental guidance is useful for racial discrimination, intense arguments, brief violence, pressure on young athletes, and a drug-possession reference. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age12+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Products & advertising2/5
  • Strong language2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Diverse representation4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising2/5
Why this rating?

Sponsorship and shoe-company offers are important story elements, though the film does not primarily function as advertising.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

No significant gore is present in the film.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Contains some mild to moderate strong language and verbal disagreements.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Minor references to faith may appear, but religious practice is not a central plot point.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Depicts a committed, long-term marriage between the parents, but romance is not a primary focus.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Contains moments of emotional intensity and high-stakes tension, but nothing designed to be scary.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Drug possession is referenced in connection with a tennis player; substance use is not a central storyline.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Includes minor instances of physical altercations and domestic disputes, reflecting the challenges of the characters' environment.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The family persists despite poverty, racism, exclusion, skepticism, and professional pressure; courage is a central theme.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Shows the creative ways Richard strategizes and advocates for his daughters' unconventional paths.

Diverse representation4/5
Why this rating?

A Black American family is portrayed at the center, with well-developed women and girls confronting racial and class barriers.

Educational value3/5
Why this rating?

Offers context about Venus and Serena Williams, tennis development, racism, class barriers, sponsorship, and athletic pressure.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes mutual support and love within the family unit.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes perseverance, preparation, family support, humility, education, and protecting young people from exploitation and burnout.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The family demonstrates dedication and resilience, while Richard’s controlling choices and stubbornness provide meaningful cautions.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in King Richard would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in King Richard, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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