Thirteen Lives
Directed by Ron Howard, 2022
PG-13 • 2h27m
Format: Streaming on Prime Video
Summary: The seemingly impossible rescue mission to reach a group of boys and their soccer coach in an underground cave system in Thailand.
What I Liked: This is a really immersive film full of heroes (Thai Navy SEALs, cave divers, the farmers and villagers who diverted heavy rains with makeshift dams, and let’s not forget the cooks who provided food for everyone!).
You feel like you are right there in Thailand during monsoon season- the dialogue flips back and forth between English and Thai.
The claustrophobia of cave diving is portrayed almost too well. Thirteen Lives did a remarkable job of showing just how much skill and problem-solving savvy is needed to dive in this sort of unforgiving environment.
Caution: Definitely a movie to watch with tweens/teens and up. Unfortunately, there is mild swearing along with one use of the F word. Very tense at times, especially the depiction of the tragic death of a rescuer. These scenes could be skipped if necessary.
For religious elements, aspects of Buddhism are shown. Since it is the predominant religion in Thailand, you will see cave shrines, monks, offerings/incense etc.
As a side note, there is also a 2021 National Geographic documentary called The Rescue (available to stream on Disney+) that could work for slightly younger viewers (perhaps around ten and up, depending on the child). It is less graphic and while it still has bad language, it is not quite as strong.
Talking Points: Despite the film’s unsuitability for a young audience, Thirteen Lives is a worthwhile story. If you are looking for a more age-appropriate version to introduce to a younger child, try the book All Thirteen by Christina Soontornvat. It was awarded the Newbery Honor. It is perfect for readers around ages 8-14 and contains many pictures. There is a fantastic audiobook as well.