Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Apollo 13

film

Apollo 13

1995

The true story of technical troubles that scuttle the Apollo 13 lunar mission in 1970, risking the lives of astronaut Jim Lovell and his crew, with the failed journey turning into a thrilling saga of heroism. Drifting more than 200,000 miles from Earth, the astronauts work furiously with the ground crew to avert tragedy.

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Death of a character2/5
  • Violence2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience5/5
  • Creativity & curiosity5/5
  • Good role models5/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

The threat of death is a central plot point, though no primary characters die.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild language consistent with the historical setting and high-stress environment.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Minor portrayal of a supportive marriage between Jim and Marilyn Lovell.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Sustained realistic danger may feel intense: an explosion, failing life support, freezing conditions, illness, and uncertain reentry. The astronauts face possible death but ultimately survive.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional background smoking by characters, reflective of the time period.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Includes scenes of a rocket explosion and the resulting chaotic turbulence; non-graphic.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience5/5
Why this rating?

Central theme of facing extreme adversity with logic and bravery.

Creativity & curiosity5/5
Why this rating?

Highlights innovative problem-solving in life-or-death situations.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Historical accuracy reflects the demographics of NASA in 1970; limited diversity.

Educational value4/5
Why this rating?

High educational value regarding space travel, physics, and historical events.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Strong theme of cooperation and mutual care under extreme pressure.

Positive messages5/5
Why this rating?

Promotes teamwork, critical thinking, perseverance, and calm under pressure.

Good role models5/5
Why this rating?

The astronauts and mission control team are portrayed as highly competent and principled.

Family discussion

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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 Apollo 13 would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Apollo 13, and what caused that change?
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