Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this documentary covers one year in the lives of three young go-kart racing stars. Junior racers Annabeth Barnes, age 11; Josh Hobson, age 12; and senior racer Brandon Warren, age 13 all are significant contenders in a five-race series over one season that determines the national WKA (World Karting Association) champions. Racing Dreams, winner of multiple film festival awards, takes in much more than the preparation and races. The families, the culture, the individual work ethics, and the kids' activities outside of racing are explored. Audiences will get to know Annabeth, Josh, and Brandon, root for them, and come to understand what propels them to succeed. One of the boys struggles with family issues (including parental addictions and abandonment), but his loving grandparents strive to give his life balance and security. Dozens of sports-affiliated products and brands are recognizable on clothing, go-karts, cars, banners, and so on throughout the film.
Sexual
Content
Not applicable
Violence
Competitive go-kart racing results in one kart overturning, no injuries.
Language
A few insults: "retarded," "screwup."
Social
Behavior
Illustrates how hard work, commitment, and parental support help achieve positive results for kids with firm goals. Shows that a passion for sport and for winning may provide a healthy outlet for a child's feelings of rage and abandonment.
Consumerism
Countless sporting manufacturers' products are on-screen, on the go-karts, clothing, and gear; as named sponsors; and in advertisements: Ultramax, X-Caliber, Abercrombie, Lowe's, Uniroyal, Greased Lightning, Delco. Food products visible in the kitchens of the subjects include Mountain Dew, Hunt's, Pioneer Sugar, Pepsi, Cheez-Its, and more.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Parental substance abuse affects the life of one of the subjects. His father appears to live with his son and stays sober for a time, then retreats into his addictions. No on-camera use of drugs.
