Let's face it, folks:
Even though films and TV series are being produced and released in record numbers these days, quality, character-filled, thought-provoking family entertainment is disappointingly hard to come by.
I recently spoke with director Chris Dowling over the phone and we talked at length about the importance of Christians setting the standard in filmmaking and storytelling.
Rather than existing solely to "fill a gap", making subpar films to appease the masses who are consuming strictly faith-based content, we should consistently be making the very best films in the world.
Why? Because God created art. He cares about art. He is passionate about storytelling. And yes, believe it or not - He even demands quality, excellence, and diligence.
"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men." (Colossians 3:23)
"Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men." (Proverbs 22:29)
We shouldn't be making the best films on the planet for the purpose of gaining Hollywood's applause and admiration, but rather to honor the Lord wholeheartedly with our gifts, talents, and abilities.
That's why when I watch a movie like Dowling's Where Hope Grows, I want to shout "WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?? GO WATCH THIS FILM!!" from the rooftops of social media and beyond.
This film is special for so many reasons, but I'll try to just name a few so you can stop reading this and go watch it.
First things first: The synopsis.
A baseball player whose professional career was cut short due to his personal problems is suddenly awakened and invigorated by a young man with Down syndrome who works at the local grocery store.
[official trailer below]
The film was noticeably well-cast (some very impressive moments throughout), featuring David DeSanctis as one of the first actors with Down syndrome to play a leading role in an English-language feature film.
Quite frankly, David (who plays the role of Produce) knocked it out of the park.
He made me smile. He made me laugh. He pulled incessantly at my heartstrings.
He was so...real.
His authenticity shined through, eliminating any and all traces of the usual "rookie nerves" you might spot when watching the film of any first-time actor.
Actor Kris Polaha also gave an effortless performance as Calvin, anchoring the entire film with a tangible sense of professionalism and imbibing the emotional transparency that his role required.
Dowling's directing and writing was delightfully natural and non-invasive. The poignant moments didn't feel forced and manufactured. Rather, we as the audience are privileged to be silent observers of a true-to-life "reenactment" of some hard-hitting issues, including discrimination, alcoholism, adultery, sexual assault etc.
Where Hope Grows is rated PG-13 for some of the reasons I just mentioned, so parents - be sure to preview the film so you can accurately determine the appropriateness for your younger children/viewers. Every family is different with regard to "what they can handle", so discernment is always encouraged.
I could go on, but for the sake of maintaining a bit of mystery and intrigue about the film, I'll wrap this up.
Succinctly put, Where Hope Grows is for everyone.
Regardless of who you are or what your background is, this film will touch your heart and inspire you to be a better person. It will challenge you to reevaluate your own preconceived notions about those with "special needs" and encourage you to live life to the very fullest of your potential.
So often, God uses the unexpected to bring about necessary change and growth in our lives.
Don't believe me? The proof is in the produce aisle.
You can watch Where Hope Grows on PureFlix (free 7-day trial, anyone?), Amazon, YouTube, Apple, Google, and Vudu.
Take your pick, pop some popcorn, and hunker down for a movie night to remember.
"...Life is meant to be lived. Lived abundantly. You look around in the cemetery, you see there are two dates on every tombstone. There's a birth date. And there is a date of death. Every human being is guaranteed those two dates. But that little dash that lies in between those two numbers - that's what defines our life. So make your dash count. LIVE. REALLY LIVE..."
P.S. My only complaint about the movie is that I'm not in it, nor did I do the musical score for it. 😉
P.P.S. Please let me know what you think of the film after watching! I always love hearing from you.
P.P.P.S. If you know of anyone who is looking for movie recommendations, please share this with them!