Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot

As a parent of three wonderful adopted children, I appreciated how the subject matter wasn’t romanticized, as is often the case in most adoption/foster child films.

This movie is well done, and I highly recommend it. It is very real, the film-makers show a complete picture of what it's like to adopt kids who have come from traumatic situations, both the positive side of adoption and the many difficulties. The overall message is one of unconditional love and hope, but there is serious and disturbing subject matter throughout the film. It can be a great conversation starter for watching with your teenager. I found it appropriate for viewing and discussion with my 13 year old, but depending on the maturity level of your teen it might be better for a 14 or 15 year old. There are a few things missing from Common Sense Media's review that should be in the "Sex, Romance" category. I was surprised that they didn't list any. A girl who looks to be 12-14 years old goes into a bathroom stall with a boy. The camera then shows the outside of the closed stall as her shirt falls to the ground. The girl is later shown crying alone in the stall. There are also several brief mentions of children being pimped out by their parents.

This presents a realistic picture of the challenges many kids face when families struggle and presents hope that everyone can choose to do something to help.