Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Like Dandelion Dust deals with mature themes: domestic abuse, alcoholism, and adoption. While most of the actual violence isn't shown on screen, the resulting injuries -- both physical and emotional -- are on display throughout (including a cowering wife, a father pushing and squeezing his son until he's bruised, etc.). A main character is an alcoholic struggling with sobriety; he smokes heavily, and, in at least one scene, he drinks until he's very drunk. The film is based on a novel by well-known Christian author Karen Kingsbury and has faith-oriented undertones.

Sexual Content

Not applicable

Violence

A leading character's injuries from spousal abuse are revealed after an attack. A brief tussle between two men results in a fall and facial injuries. A father roughly squeezes the arms of a 6-year-old boy during a heated argument. The same man shatters a mirror with his fist and reaches out to hit his wife as a scene ends.

Language

"Pee," "butt."

Social Behavior

The movie's message is that the truest form of parental love is putting your child's welfare above your self interest. Also, recovery and rehabilitation from substance abuse isn't an easy process and takes determination, faith, and patience. And there are often setbacks, which require renewed efforts on the part of an abuser and their family.

Consumerism

Apple computer logo is visible.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Alcohol abuse and recovery are major story points. The alcoholic at the heart of this film can't maintain his sobriety and drinks heavily in several scenes. He also smokes throughout. Other characters drink wine in social settings.