Akeelah and the Bee
Movie (2006)
Changing the world... one word at a time.
11-year-old Akeelah Anderson has a way with words. After winning her schoolwide spelling bee, she decides to enter the competition, despite her classmates' derision and the antipathy of her mother Tanya. Thanks to the efforts of her teacher Dr. Larabee, she reaches the finals. As she gets to know her fellow competitors, Akeelah realizes that coming first isn't everything in life.
Akeelah and the Bee
Movie (2006)
Changing the world... one word at a time.
11-year-old Akeelah Anderson has a way with words. After winning her schoolwide spelling bee, she decides to enter the competition, despite her classmates' derision and the antipathy of her mother Tanya. Thanks to the efforts of her teacher Dr. Larabee, she reaches the finals. As she gets to know her fellow competitors, Akeelah realizes that coming first isn't everything in life.
What to know before you start
Content details to help you decide what fits your child.
Sex & Nudity
There is no sexual content or romantic themes depicted in the film, making it completely appropriate for all ages.
Violence & Gore
The movie contains only very mild conflict, such as a brief, non-graphic scuffle between children, which is appropriate for a family drama.
Profanity
The dialogue is very clean, featuring only occasional mild exclamations like "h*ll" and "d*mn" used in frustration or emphasis.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
There is no depiction of alcohol, drug use, or smoking throughout the duration of the film.
Frightening Scenes
Some scenes feature mild emotional tension regarding family pressure and academic competition, which may cause brief concern for very young children.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This is a story about a girl who learns that using her intelligence and chasing her dreams requires hard work and the support of the people who believe in her.
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
No sexual content, violence, or substance use indicated in available information; mild emotional tension regarding family dynamics and peer exclusion exists.
What Kids Can Learn
Children gain perspective on how to handle competition healthily, the benefit of seeking mentors, and the importance of supporting others.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
The film offers a heart-warming, grounded narrative that celebrates intellectual achievement and strong community ties without relying on excessive spectacle.
Positives & learning
Positive messages
Emphasizes the value of perseverance, the importance of academic curiosity, and the realization that personal integrity outweighs winning.
Role models
Akeelah serves as a relatable protagonist who works hard to overcome self-doubt, while her mentor provides a steady, disciplined example of patience and belief in student potential.
Representation
Features a predominantly Black cast, authentically portraying the cultural and socioeconomic realities of an urban community with nuance and depth.
Learning
Encourages vocabulary development, appreciation for language, and underscores the social-emotional necessity of grit and goal-setting.
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