Dickens & Rumi
Cover of What if...

film

What if...

2010

Fifteen years ago, Ben Walker made a decision to leave his college sweetheart and ultimately his faith, in order to pursue a lucrative business opportunity. Now with a high-paying career and a trophy fiancé, he is visited by an angel, who gives him a glimpse into what his life would look like had he followed his calling.

Ages 8+Source checked

Why this age? The PG-rated film appears broadly family-oriented, but its spiritual themes, relationship choices, emotional regret, and serious life reflections may be better suited to children around 8 and older. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

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At a glance

Recommended age8+

Strongest cautions

  • Religious themes5/5
  • Romance3/5
  • Frightening scenes1/5

Strongest positives

  • Positive messages4/5
  • Good role models3/5
  • Kindness & empathy3/5

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What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

No commercial products or branding featured prominently.

Religious themes5/5
Why this rating?

The film is explicitly centered on Christian faith, pastoral life, and personal spiritual growth.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

Romance is a central element: the protagonist revisits the path involving his college sweetheart and his current engagement.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

No frightening sequences or threats.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

No sexual content or nudity.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience2/5
Why this rating?

Courage is depicted in making difficult life changes to align with one's values.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

The angel's alternate-life premise encourages imaginative reflection about choices, consequences, and how lives might unfold differently.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

The supplied information does not identify varied backgrounds, abilities, or identities; diversity appears limited, though scene-level evidence is sparse.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Offers incidental lessons on life choices and personal values.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Kindness and selflessness are emphasized through the character's journey.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

The story strongly emphasizes second chances, faith, meaningful vocation, love, family, and reconsidering material success.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist learns to take responsibility and become a better role model for his family.

Family discussion

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

  1. What message do you think the story most wants you to remember?
  2. What beliefs or religious ideas appear in the story? How do they influence the characters?
  3. Which choice in What if... would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in What if..., and what caused that change?
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