We Are Stronger Movie Review (2024)

Parents need to know that We Are Stronger is a Christian story about a career soldier's struggle with PTSD and his journey toward learning to heal. Other faiths aren't mentioned, and everyone is assumed to believe in the Christian God. Violence includes some blood shown in the aftermath of combat, a trauma survivor telling indirectly about past childhood sexual abuse, and a soldier who had to listen to enemy soldiers repeatedly raping -- hearing the screams of their victims. Alcohol and drug abuse, suicide, and divorce as prominent consequences of not dealing effectively with trauma are mentioned. A minor character smokes. There are lots of messages about the power of God and Christ to heal, the importance of sharing, and seeking help because you can't heal alone. Kids demonstrate how they're taught to proselytize.

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Violence & Scariness

some

Combat scene briefly shows bloody leg wound and blood on unconscious soldier's face, neck. Past childhood sexual molestation or rape is implied through phrases like somebody "liking" young boys, things happening under the stairs of an apartment building, being afraid to tell anyone because perpetrator threatened victim. Mention of listening to soldiers repeatedly raping women, children; hearing their screams. Past suicide attempts mentioned; Vic holds a gun in his lap while drinking, implying he's thinking about suicide. Vic slaps remote control out of Michelle's hand, advances on her menacingly.

Products & Purchases

some

Several incidental-seeming shots show iPhone, Ford, Chevrolet, and Jim Beam logos or products. A sequence of scenes depicts Mighty Oaks programs and activities. Several prominent shots of books, leaflets, or fliers for Christ-centered healing through organizations affiliated with the movie's production.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

some

Several scenes show Vic drinking from a fifth bottle as an ineffective coping mechanism. Vic combines pain medications with alcohol and collapses. A man pours from a flask into a coffee cup. A character is in recovery for alcohol addiction. Several mentions of past drug use. A minor but important character smokes and handles an unlit cigarette in an extended scene.

Positive Messages

a little

Lots of messages about power of God and Christ to heal; other faiths aren't mentioned. God and Christ are present all the time, even through tragedy, horror. Christ's story shows that he and God understand your pain, despair. Secular messages include that sharing your story is a big part of healing, but it's OK that it takes time to be ready to share. You can't heal or be helpful caregiver all on your own; you need help, support from loved ones so mind, body, and spirit can be strong.

Positive Role Models

a little

Ultimately Vic is a good role model for learning to open himself to others and that sharing experiences is a big part of healing. But we see him go through difficult times, model negative behavior like drinking, contemplating suicide, jealousy, refusing to seek help. Michelle is a committed wife, devoted caretaker who learns to seek help and support for herself, too. Other characters are positive role models of people working on healing or who have overcome past trauma.