Best from age 8 · PG · 2006 · 113 min
Akeelah and the Bee
Reviewed by the Movie-Knight team · Updated
This inspiring drama follows 11-year-old Akeelah Anderson, a bright girl from South Los Angeles who discovers a talent for spelling. Despite early resistance from her mother and school peers, she works with her determined coach to overcome challenges and compete in the National Spelling Bee. Parents should be aware that the film subtly touches on themes of grief, social prejudice, and internal family conflict, all handled age-appropriately. This is a powerful and uplifting watch for children aged 8 and up.
Is Akeelah and the Bee OK for kids, and for what age?
Watch with a parent. Movie Knight rates it best from age 8. Rated PG.
What's in it
0 = none · 10 = intenseViolence & peril
None0/10
Language
Mild1/10
Drinking, drugs & smoking
None0/10
Romance & sensuality
None0/10
Scary moments
None0/10
Heads up
- Some instances of parental conflict
- Themes of a parent's past death
- Brief moments of social teasing
Models well
- Perseverance and hard work
- Community and mentorship
- Self-discovery and confidence
Talk about it after
- What challenges did Akeelah face outside of spelling, and how did she overcome them?
- How does the film show that winning isn't always the most important thing?
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