The film has an overarching theme of healing from loss and grief, including the fractured relationship between mother and daughter which at times becomes hostile. Viewers who have experienced their own trauma may be affected. However, the film handles these themes sensitively, and the outcome is ultimately hopeful and reassuring.
The initial horseback riding scene is quite harrowing and may be frightening to some, and at least unnerving to many other viewers. In it, Grace and her friend try to climb a snow-covered hill on their horses that begin to slide backwards. One eventually slides into the other and both careen down the hill until they land on a snow-covered road. A large, approaching truck then locks its wheels and uncontrollably slides toward them, striking Pilgrim and running over and killing the other girl (the latter isn't explicitly seen).
A horse is hit by a truck. He survives but is traumatized and becomes extremely fearful and violent when approached by humans, including his owner. He is constantly restrained so that he will not harm himself or anyone else. At one point it is strongly recommended that he be euthanized.
Overall, this film can easily frighten and upset most children and some adults.