Movie of The Week: A Review of the Soon to be Released “Sarah’s Oil” (2025)

“Sarah’s Oil”: A Faith-Filled Reminder of God Hides Treasures
Some stories are not just meant to be told, they are meant to awaken something deep within us. Sarah’s Oil is one such story. Inspired by real events, this powerful film tells the remarkable journey of Sarah Rector, an eleven-year-old African American girl who believed there was oil beneath the dry, desolate land she was allotted in Oklahoma and she was right.
Set in the early 1900s, Sarah’s Oil reminds us that God often plants unimaginable treasure in the most overlooked places and people, especially in our children. The movie is based on the bestselling book Searching for Sarah Rector: The Richest Black Girl in America, the film is a bold testimony to faith, family, and divine purpose. It’s a must-watch for families and communities seeking inspiration on nurturing the “seeds of greatness” within our children.
Lead Cast
- Naya Desir-Johnson as Sarah Rector
- Zachary Levi as George C. Curtin, a principled lawyer and advocate
- Sonequa Martin-Green as Tamer Rector, Sarah’s protective and faithful mother
- Garret Dillahunt as a predatory oil prospector
Faith, Vision, and the Power of a Child’s Belief
At its core, “Sarah’s Oil” is a story of unshakable faith. It’s easy to dismiss a child’s imagination, but the film challenges us to see the world through Sarah’s eyes. In the early 1900s, when the land given to her seemed barren and worthless, Sarah believed in a different truth. She saw potential where others saw only hardship. Her story is a powerful reminder that we, as primary and secondary parents, are called to trust in our children’s innate vision and to support their God-given dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem. This film beautifully illustrates the biblical principle that faith can move mountains or, in this case, unearth oceans of oil.
A Lesson in History and Legacy
This film is a fantastic educational tool for parents and educators. It provides a unique opportunity to teach children about a significant, yet often overlooked, part of American history. Sarah Rector’s story is intertwined with the history of the Dawes Act and the Oklahoma Land Rush, which allotted land to Black and Native American families in the early 20th century. By engaging with this film, children can learn about:
- Black Wall Street: The film’s setting provides a backdrop for discussions about the thriving Black communities and entrepreneurs of that era.
- The Power of Resilience: Sarah’s journey highlights the systemic challenges and injustices faced by African Americans, and how communities banded together to protect their own.
- Legacy and Inheritance: It teaches children the importance of understanding their own history and the legacy of those who came before them.
“Sarah’s Oil” is a gateway to rich, meaningful conversations about our past, making history feel alive and relevant to our children’s lives today.
Streaming & Release
Sarah’s Oil will premiere exclusively in theaters on November 7, 2025.
Conclusion
“Sarah’s Oil” is more than just a historical film; it’s a profound spiritual and educational movie. It serves as a powerful reminder of the preciousness of every child and the importance of fostering an environment where their faith, vision, and potential can flourish. Let “Sarah’s Oil” inspire you to see the untapped potential in the children around you and to trust that, with faith, their dreams can bring forth a blessing for all.