The life story of the famous country singer Dolly Parton was marked not only by poverty but also by her mother’s admirable and exemplary faith. Outspoken and blunt, Dolly—whose life was not always exemplary—was already a star in her childhood.

The Partons are a large family expecting another addition. Sadly, the baby dies shortly after birth. Little Dolly struggles to cope with this loss, as does her mother. In addition to this family tragedy, Dolly faces various difficulties at school—from arguments with classmates to minor conflicts with her teacher.

Through her strong faith and her husband’s support, little Dolly’s mother overcomes the difficult period following the loss of her son. Later, Dolly’s strong mother helps her daughter understand and adopt the right attitude toward life, so that she can learn to forgive and accept life’s hardships.

The film beautifully illustrates how individual family members support one another. When one is going through a crisis, the others are there to lift them up. Through the love within their family, they learn to spread kindness to others as well.

The story of the Parton family is full of beautiful expressions of love and moments that highlight the essence and meaning of a life built on Christian values.

Drama / Family

USA, 2015, 81 min

Crew: Stephen Herek

Cast: Alyvia Alyn Lind, Jennifer Nettles, Ricky Schroder, Gerald McRaney, Hannah Nordberg, Farrah Mackenzie, Carson Meyer, Forrest Deal

Parents’ Guide

In the opening and closing scenes, the real Dolly Parton, wearing a short skirt, comments on the film’s content. One instance of passionate kissing between a married couple.

Little Dolly grumbles at God and her mother. The expression “Jesus Christ” is used about once.

The death of a newborn baby.

The father of the family does not enter the church during services. An occasionally unfaithful husband. Disgusting gossip about the Partons from women in the local church congregation.

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