Surviving Ohio State (2025)

Released: 2025-06-09 Recommended age: 16+ No IMDb rating yet
Surviving Ohio State

Movie details

  • Genres: Documentary
  • Director: Eva Orner
  • Main cast: Jim Jordan
  • Country / region: United States of America
  • Original language: en
  • Premiere: 2025-06-09

Story overview

This documentary examines the sexual abuse scandal involving Dr. Richard Strauss at Ohio State University, where he abused hundreds of male student-athletes over two decades. It focuses on survivors' experiences, institutional failures, and their ongoing fight for justice and accountability.

Parent Guide

A serious documentary about institutional sexual abuse with mature themes. Contains detailed survivor accounts and discussions of abuse. Not suitable for children; recommended for mature teens 16+ with parental guidance.

Content breakdown

Violence & peril
Mild

No physical violence depicted, but discussions of abuse and institutional harm. Psychological peril from survivor stories of trauma.

Scary / disturbing
Strong

Extremely disturbing content about systematic sexual abuse, survivor trauma, and institutional betrayal. Graphic descriptions of abuse may be emotionally distressing.

Language
Mild

Occasional strong language in survivor testimonies or interviews. Not excessive but reflects emotional intensity of subject matter.

Sexual content & nudity
Strong

Explicit discussions of sexual abuse, though no visual depictions. Detailed accounts of inappropriate medical exams and sexual assault. Central theme of documentary.

Substance use
None

No substance use depicted or discussed in provided information.

Emotional intensity
Strong

High emotional intensity throughout. Survivor testimonies, discussions of trauma, and institutional failures create sustained emotional impact. May trigger strong reactions.

Parent tips

This film deals with sensitive, mature themes of sexual abuse and institutional cover-ups. It's best suited for older teens and adults. Watch with teens to discuss consent, abuse prevention, and institutional responsibility. Be prepared for emotional content and survivor testimonies.

Parent chat guide

If watching with older teens, discuss: 1) How institutions should respond to abuse reports, 2) The importance of believing survivors, 3) What consent means in medical and authority contexts, 4) How to seek help if experiencing abuse. Emphasize that abuse is never the victim's fault and support resources are available.

Parent follow-up questions

  • What did you learn about how institutions should handle abuse reports?
  • How did the documentary show the impact on survivors?
  • What would you do if you or someone you know experienced similar situations?
  • Why is it important for survivors to speak out?

Where to watch

Choose region:

  • HBO Max
  • HBO Max Amazon Channel

Trailer

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