Showbiz Kids

This documentary digs into the considerable downsides of being a child actor.

It’s well-worn ground, but what’s interesting is that this is the first cautionary tale about child stars that doesn’t smirk or dip into cliche. There’s empathy, and that empathy is deserved.

Sure, these kids achieved something many others want. But they were also kids–kids put in awkward and sometimes dangerous positions. They were forced to deal with adult decisions and adult behavior way before they were ready to handle such things. This film makes it clear that fame doesn’t shield you from trauma.