It probably wouldn't be fair to just trash this film out of hand. There will doubtless be many who find the pro-life message it emphasises life-affirming. As a piece of cinema, though, it is a shockingly simplistic and one-sided attempt to suggest to young women facing that most difficult of decisions that all in the garden is ridiculously rosy! We start with "David" (the easy on the Raphael Ruggero) whom we discover has been adopted by the Christian (that's important) Colton family - "Jimmy" (Kirk Cameron) and "Susan" (Rebecca Rogers). They live a happy life with the young man a keen wrestler about to go on to college. Sadly, though, injury befalls him and after surgery to relieve pressure on his brain - the recovery from which would put Lazarus to shame - he has to rethink his plans. Meantime, his birth mother realises that he is now eighteen and so attempts to get in touch. The rest of this rather sentimentally cheesy drama follows a slightly nauseating path, I found, aided unhelpfully by his rather irritating mate "Nate" (Justin Sterner) who insisted on filming everything on his phone - even some of the most sensitive and personal moments as the story evolves with an almost menacing degree of indoctrinating pontification - subtle, yes - as an air raid! The acting, especially from the adults, is twee and pedestrian in the extreme with adulation and fawning galore as we plod along towards an ending that I found supremely condescending. This is at best, a mediocre television movie that should only be shown in cinemas with a warning that it completely lacks any sense of balance. The soundtrack is also banal - plinky plonky piano chords just to reinforce the gloopiness. I didn't hate it. Cameron et al are entitled to their point of view, but if this is supposed to be in any way educational or realistic, then I'm Tom Thumb!
37 Reviews
Disappointing
jbear-0569716 December 2022
Poorly written. Emotional moments use cheesy royalty free inspirational/sad music, characters don't have any depth. To put it kindly, the acting is subpar and the dialogue is just awkward. Movie falls into countless poorly-executed clichés. One of the worst writing issues I noticed was how characters didn't evolve throughout the entire movie. Movie was so excellent it could have been directed by Donald Trump.
Here's my satirical review: Beautiful film that loves mentioning how god was responsible for every thing down to a character speaking. What an amazing film, I loved it so much hearing about church and god. It was just so inspirational.
Here's my satirical review: Beautiful film that loves mentioning how god was responsible for every thing down to a character speaking. What an amazing film, I loved it so much hearing about church and god. It was just so inspirational.
Better Than Average Adoption Film - Lifemark
arthur_tafero18 October 2022
The plot of this film has been done a few dozen times before. Sometimes, the subject matter has been handled sensitively, and most other times the subject matter was handled shabbily. The old story of the birth mother wanting to reunite with the child who has been adopted can easily fall into the cornball acting syndrome. Fortunately for this film and its actors, it does not. The script is intelligent, the actors are believable, and the situation is handled in a sensitive manner. All of these good variables make this an easy decision to recommend this film to the public. The only reservation I have about the film is its overreliance on religion.
Literally should have been called "Hallmark". Maybe?
taylorwoods8123 September 2022
The movie has good intentions but lacks any sense of believability. The films flimsy, "just hope and it will all work out" style of storytelling leaves plot holes and underwhelming conflict resolution. The characters are likeable, but forgettable. The production quality is on par with a Lifetime movie, which was expected but the washed out filters make it look slightly nicer than a student film. This movie is a Hallmark original at best. Though they may even pass it to an even lower level network. If you want a movie that makes you feel all of the feelings without making you think, than this movie is for you...
One Of The Most Powerful Movies I Have Ever Seen.
filmbuff-0570611 September 2022
As a Christian who is a film buff, I have a love-hate relationship with Christian movies. Many seem too preachy, or hateful towards atheists or liberals, and many are not well shot.
I think The Kendrick Brothers make good movies though, and this one, their first dramatized true story, is their best film yet. I saw it with my Grandma, and we both gave it a 10/10. I hope that they continue to tell true stories.
Lifemark is a true story about an 18-year-old named David who was adopted. (Kirk Cameron, who did the Kendrick Brother's film Fireproof, plays his adoptive father.) Now that he is an adult, his birth mother wants to meet him. After some consideration, he agrees, and has a life-changing meeting with her.
From a filmmaking standpoint, it's very well made. No Oscars will come its way, (which is a little disappointing), but compared to other faith-based movies, even Kendrick Brothers films, the camera work, acting, and pace are all well done for a faith-based movie.
The story was also engaging. Often, in 2 hour movies, I have to use the bathroom in the middle. Lifemark is one of the few movies I have ever seen in theaters in one sitting. The fact that Lifemark is a true story that sticks to the facts makes it all the more incredible.
There is also some light humor in the film. One scene that comes to mind is a scene where David's birth mother asks him if he'd like to go skydiving, and there are some laughs involving David's best friend's fear of falling in the sky. (I'm with you, man! You couldn't pay me a million dollars to skydive!)
Most of all though, like the Kendrick Brother's previous film, Show Me The Father (a fantastic documentary, by the way), Lifemark's best quality is the film's heart.
Lifemark has a pro-life message. While it may seem convenient that this film releases just 2.5 months after the overturning of Roe V. Wade, this movie has actually been in the works for 3 years, long before the Dobbs V. Jackson buzz was going around.
Anyways, I have seen other pro-life Christian movies that were not good. Unplanned tells a contradictory story of a Planned Parenthood director becoming pro-choice to pro-life, and Loving The Bad Man tells of a rape victim not only having her attacker's baby but falling in love with the attacker as well. (I have reviewed both movies on my page if you would like to read more about my critiques of those movies.)
Lifemark tells a consistent and powerful story though. My Grandma and I were in tears often, like in a scene where David finds out that he was almost aborted. After The Bible and movies, the abortion debate- and the pro-life side in particular, is my 3rd main interest, and that made this movie even more powerful.
Sadly, due to the controversial nature of the message, Lifemark is only in limited theaters from September 9th-15th. I had to go to a theater almost 20 minutes away to see it. If you can see it in the next few days, please do. If not, buy the DVD. I'm going to ask for it for Christmas.
Lifemark is one of the most powerful movies I have ever seen, as well as one of the best Christian movies I have ever seen. With movies like this and Father Stu and less ones like God's Not Dead and Unplanned, Christian movies are only improving. The fact that true stories are being told, rather than far-fetched fiction, seems to be a benefit.
Simply put, Lifemark will set a mark in your life. No matter your views on religion or abortion, Lifemark has my highest recommendation.
***
Note to Hollywood: Co-writer and co-producer Alex Kendrick has stated that he's heard rumors of movies in favor of abortion are coming out in response to Roe's overturning. If that is the case, know that I do not intend to be in the theater for those. I want life-affirming stories, not death-affirming ones.
(I do enjoy Lake of Fire, a documentary about the complexity of both sides of the abortion debate.)
***
I think The Kendrick Brothers make good movies though, and this one, their first dramatized true story, is their best film yet. I saw it with my Grandma, and we both gave it a 10/10. I hope that they continue to tell true stories.
Lifemark is a true story about an 18-year-old named David who was adopted. (Kirk Cameron, who did the Kendrick Brother's film Fireproof, plays his adoptive father.) Now that he is an adult, his birth mother wants to meet him. After some consideration, he agrees, and has a life-changing meeting with her.
From a filmmaking standpoint, it's very well made. No Oscars will come its way, (which is a little disappointing), but compared to other faith-based movies, even Kendrick Brothers films, the camera work, acting, and pace are all well done for a faith-based movie.
The story was also engaging. Often, in 2 hour movies, I have to use the bathroom in the middle. Lifemark is one of the few movies I have ever seen in theaters in one sitting. The fact that Lifemark is a true story that sticks to the facts makes it all the more incredible.
There is also some light humor in the film. One scene that comes to mind is a scene where David's birth mother asks him if he'd like to go skydiving, and there are some laughs involving David's best friend's fear of falling in the sky. (I'm with you, man! You couldn't pay me a million dollars to skydive!)
Most of all though, like the Kendrick Brother's previous film, Show Me The Father (a fantastic documentary, by the way), Lifemark's best quality is the film's heart.
Lifemark has a pro-life message. While it may seem convenient that this film releases just 2.5 months after the overturning of Roe V. Wade, this movie has actually been in the works for 3 years, long before the Dobbs V. Jackson buzz was going around.
Anyways, I have seen other pro-life Christian movies that were not good. Unplanned tells a contradictory story of a Planned Parenthood director becoming pro-choice to pro-life, and Loving The Bad Man tells of a rape victim not only having her attacker's baby but falling in love with the attacker as well. (I have reviewed both movies on my page if you would like to read more about my critiques of those movies.)
Lifemark tells a consistent and powerful story though. My Grandma and I were in tears often, like in a scene where David finds out that he was almost aborted. After The Bible and movies, the abortion debate- and the pro-life side in particular, is my 3rd main interest, and that made this movie even more powerful.
Sadly, due to the controversial nature of the message, Lifemark is only in limited theaters from September 9th-15th. I had to go to a theater almost 20 minutes away to see it. If you can see it in the next few days, please do. If not, buy the DVD. I'm going to ask for it for Christmas.
Lifemark is one of the most powerful movies I have ever seen, as well as one of the best Christian movies I have ever seen. With movies like this and Father Stu and less ones like God's Not Dead and Unplanned, Christian movies are only improving. The fact that true stories are being told, rather than far-fetched fiction, seems to be a benefit.
Simply put, Lifemark will set a mark in your life. No matter your views on religion or abortion, Lifemark has my highest recommendation.
***
Note to Hollywood: Co-writer and co-producer Alex Kendrick has stated that he's heard rumors of movies in favor of abortion are coming out in response to Roe's overturning. If that is the case, know that I do not intend to be in the theater for those. I want life-affirming stories, not death-affirming ones.
(I do enjoy Lake of Fire, a documentary about the complexity of both sides of the abortion debate.)
***
Could have been so much better
steveatwal17 April 2024
This movie could have been so much better:
I could go on, but basically the movie is for God loving people who see no wrong in anything anyone does. Not very realistic.
The movie could have been so much better if the above wasn't in it. Maybe they should have implemented the KISS principle (keep it simple silly) when they made this movie?
- if it was written better. Too many teary moments...not very realistic.
- if it didn't keep referring to God so often. Seems like everyone in the movie was into God and praising God. Not very realistic.
- if David's friend didn't have his iPhone in everyone's face, recording everything, and no one complaining about it. Not very realistic.
I could go on, but basically the movie is for God loving people who see no wrong in anything anyone does. Not very realistic.
The movie could have been so much better if the above wasn't in it. Maybe they should have implemented the KISS principle (keep it simple silly) when they made this movie?
Left after one hour.
rogerwatson-0950018 October 2022
I think this movie was made for a particular audience so you may love it. It is corny and the acting is awful. It makes Happy Days seem like The Exorcist. It is sooo squeaky clean and everyone is happy. If you can suspend judgement and any link to the real world then great. The parts that made me laugh were the close ups of Kirk Cameron with his arm around his wife with a "life is good" smile on his face. There are about 25 of those so you can't miss them, Worst acting goes to the school teacher Mr Russell. I did however like the best friend who put a bit of humor into his role. The rest is like an episode of "Growing Pains" with the actors having gone to the Alan Thicke academy of acting.
You will NOT regret watching this!
hopefulhuman88810 September 2022
I've never given a movie 10 stars until this one! I was mildly interested in it before watching it and am so happy I did. I will warn you though it's a tear jerker. Finally a movie with a positive message, so badly needed in our day! Appropriate for the whole family.
Everyone should be able to relate to this movie. I found myself relating to poor choices I've made in my youth, I found myself relating to the longing to be loved and wanted in your family, and I found myself relating as a parent and the love you have for someone walking around with a piece of your heart.
If this movie gets downrated on IMBD, I can almost guarantee you that it will be because of trolls who believe in abortion. This movie though, does not focus on anti-abortion stances, but on the beauty that comes from the selfless act of adoption and the friends and family that are there for you supporting you through your ups and downs.
So heartwarming, only those without a heart will not like it.
Also wear waterproof mascara when seeing this!
Everyone should be able to relate to this movie. I found myself relating to poor choices I've made in my youth, I found myself relating to the longing to be loved and wanted in your family, and I found myself relating as a parent and the love you have for someone walking around with a piece of your heart.
If this movie gets downrated on IMBD, I can almost guarantee you that it will be because of trolls who believe in abortion. This movie though, does not focus on anti-abortion stances, but on the beauty that comes from the selfless act of adoption and the friends and family that are there for you supporting you through your ups and downs.
So heartwarming, only those without a heart will not like it.
Also wear waterproof mascara when seeing this!
Boring, boring and boring
adavidfutral21 September 2022
Once again, Kirk Cameron makes another "christian" movie that is no where close draped in real-real-wrold reality. The acting in this movie is B- at least, a boring plot that you can see a mile away, and overall another sappy boring christian movie. Once again, Kirk Cameron makes another "christian" movie that is no where close draped in real-real-wrold reality. The acting in this movie is B- at least, a boring plot that you can see a mile away, and overall another sappy boring christian movie. Once again, Kirk Cameron makes another "christian" movie that is no where close draped in real-real-wrold reality. The acting in this movie is B- at least, a boring plot that you can see a mile away, and overall another sappy boring christian movie.
Hollywood is scared of faith based movies
ykjdh10 September 2022
I first found the Kendrick Brothers movie Courageous back when I was experiencing something similar as the character Nathan in that movie. I'll just say that movie had a message that reach a lot of people whether unexpected like it did with me or intentionally for its main audience. That audience has been ridiculed of late in the media and targeted by folks who simply have nothing better to do but insult others. This movie is an example of the evolving hate towards faith based movies and the audiences who support them. I was disappointed to hear my theater was only showing this for one week. I guess the subject matter if too conflicting with today's world climate.
Still, this is one of the best movies I've seen this year. The topic of abortion has been told before going back more than 30 years in another Kirk Cameron movie 'Listen to me.' That movie was produced and advertised by a major movie studio. This one is produced by Christian film makers who have a reputation or making thought provoking, heart warming movies with a message. Except where major Hollywood movies are throwing money making garbage, they're really missing out on an audience who financially support these movies.
This movie is well told, well acted, and moving. With the recent Roe v Wade issues in 2022, it's pro life stance likely scared away studios. No bother because those who enjoy good movies will still choose to spend their money on things they can take their families to see together.
A young man turns 18 and realizes he was adopted as his birth mother reaches out to him. Eventuality he learns some years earlier, his mother considered abortion. The relationship between mom and son takes this movie to a whole new level not shown in movies today....genuine heart and human emotion. Are there themes of faith and hope?? Of course, and it's not ashamed to go there. What it will do though is make you think while you find yourself really invested in the characters. You find yourself rooting for these folks on screen because you want them to succeed. There's some humor, some comedy, little action, and all around a pretty good time. Best part is you can take the family to this one and not worry about sex and profanity. I'm guessing the PG-13 rating comes as a caution due to the subject matter but otherwise this is clean entertainment. I highly recommend it. Show Hollywood their error in not producing more movies like the Kendrick Brothers films-which by the way went number 1 in 2015.
Still, this is one of the best movies I've seen this year. The topic of abortion has been told before going back more than 30 years in another Kirk Cameron movie 'Listen to me.' That movie was produced and advertised by a major movie studio. This one is produced by Christian film makers who have a reputation or making thought provoking, heart warming movies with a message. Except where major Hollywood movies are throwing money making garbage, they're really missing out on an audience who financially support these movies.
This movie is well told, well acted, and moving. With the recent Roe v Wade issues in 2022, it's pro life stance likely scared away studios. No bother because those who enjoy good movies will still choose to spend their money on things they can take their families to see together.
A young man turns 18 and realizes he was adopted as his birth mother reaches out to him. Eventuality he learns some years earlier, his mother considered abortion. The relationship between mom and son takes this movie to a whole new level not shown in movies today....genuine heart and human emotion. Are there themes of faith and hope?? Of course, and it's not ashamed to go there. What it will do though is make you think while you find yourself really invested in the characters. You find yourself rooting for these folks on screen because you want them to succeed. There's some humor, some comedy, little action, and all around a pretty good time. Best part is you can take the family to this one and not worry about sex and profanity. I'm guessing the PG-13 rating comes as a caution due to the subject matter but otherwise this is clean entertainment. I highly recommend it. Show Hollywood their error in not producing more movies like the Kendrick Brothers films-which by the way went number 1 in 2015.
Heartwarming until you find the preachy center
richieygrl21 December 2022
This movie won't be pulling in any acting awards in the near or far future but for a lazy day of mindless tv watching it was fine, even heartwarming. That is until its alternative motives were made clear. I guess I wasn't paying close enough attention to see where it was going. The end got super preachy with an anti-abortion chaser that discussed none of the nuances that may come into play when women make the decision to abort. As a woman and an adoptee I was low-key offended by the simplistic adoption vs abortion binary they drew in this movie.
The last quarter of the movie was disappointing and infuriating in turns which colored my overall perspective in a negative way.
The last quarter of the movie was disappointing and infuriating in turns which colored my overall perspective in a negative way.
unnecessary religious tone and cloying soundtrack
r-whiteaker17 January 2023
Unnecessary religious tone, preachy dialogue, and cloying soundtrack detract from the story and makes it fairly unwatchable.. I wanted to like it but this story's been told before, and better. The christianity aspect carries some judgmentalizing with it. Their god is always in a win-win position, because if their prayers and faith succeed. Then god gets the credit for the miracle. Failure of prayers and faith means it wasn't god's will and god works in mysterious ways. Pretty convenient. That's probably to be expected. It's their thing. It's a shame because young people need relatable ways to deal with real-life issues like adoption, teen pregnancy, and life skills without the fantasy of religion.
Lifemark!
cbrakebush9615 September 2022
Wonderful movie! It is an inspiring true story about adoption and what it means to truly adopt someone into a family:) highly recommend it to families, couples, and groups! I would recommend it to anyone who would want to be encouraged in the times of family struggle with adoption and not knowing what choice to make. It can change your life! God works in big ways and He cannot be stopped! This film delivers a powerful message about pro-life and how every life matters and children are a gift from God:) Adoption is very powerful, and this movie explains why adoption is powerful in that way! Every child deserves a chance to live and should be cherished and loved:)
The worst movie about adoption and abortion.
koliveras29 January 2023
I started the film with great emotion, I am very interested in knowing the experience of adopted people, how they face life and living with their parents, everything made me uncomfortable when they mentioned the word "God" multiple times in such an unnecessary way, but the The cherry on the cake was when they treated the issue of abortion in such a simplistic and superficial way, how sad that even today they transmit this type of erroneous messages about the reality of an adopted person and the rights of women over their bodies, And to finish if we talk in terms of acting, it was horrible, simplistic dialogues and exaggerated expressions, they looked like amateur people playing actors, even watching such ridiculous things was funny but in such an awkward way. A complete waste of time.
Great movie, well played by the cast
chadbramell-5928510 September 2022
We loved this movie. It deals with real world situations.
Adoption speaks closely to our hearts and the impact a single adoption can have on countless people and following generations is amazing. The Kendrick brothers do a phenomenal job of mixing the reality of life with God's grace and love, along with some humor and brevity thrown in along the way. If you like this movie, check out some of their others, including Facing the Giants, Fireproof, Overcomer and Courageous. They started making their first few movies on a very small budget and have stated the quality of their movies improved over time as they had more financial resources. While the film quality of their movies has improved with each one, the quality of the message delivered in each one is spot on. God has truly blessed these guys with a gift to touch countless lives with their inspirational movies.
Adoption speaks closely to our hearts and the impact a single adoption can have on countless people and following generations is amazing. The Kendrick brothers do a phenomenal job of mixing the reality of life with God's grace and love, along with some humor and brevity thrown in along the way. If you like this movie, check out some of their others, including Facing the Giants, Fireproof, Overcomer and Courageous. They started making their first few movies on a very small budget and have stated the quality of their movies improved over time as they had more financial resources. While the film quality of their movies has improved with each one, the quality of the message delivered in each one is spot on. God has truly blessed these guys with a gift to touch countless lives with their inspirational movies.
Pro Life Far Right Propaganda
iamcharliepace18 December 2022
I don't care for politics when I watch a movie. If anything, I can appreciate a story that shows balanced perspectives from both angles. Complexity and nuanced character driven plot lines, and along with great character development, is what makes for a great story - and this has none of those elements. This movie felt like an episode of Grey's Anatomy, except made far-right. It comes across as very preachy and it's truly cringe worthy. I don't like Grey's Anatomy far left preaching either, but this one is no better. Also, the production of this film felt like a Lifetime network or Hallmark movie, which might explain the fitting title. It's nauseating acting and story line, in a family where everyone is just all "hunky dory" and just need to "keep faith." I'm glad that Kirk Cameron has strong religious beliefs that work for him - that's great. Just stop pushing your beliefs on others and focus on making just really great films that make you think and evoke great emotion. This one was neither a great or even good film, and one that will bore you to sleep. Do yourself a favor and watch a re-run of Growing Pains or a Hallmark Christmas movie instead.
Better than I expected
brodella-0388510 September 2022
A truly beautiful example of how adoption provides an option that is full of hope and potential for both the child and parents. It is full of compassion for everyone involved and I love that this is based on a true story. I often find Christian movies to be cheesy and hard to watch because I lose interest (sad but true), but this was excellent. I laughed and cried and walked away feeling inspired. I think this would have been a really powerful movie to see as a young teen when you're trying to decide what you believe about abortion. As a teenager, adoption wasn't even though of as an option among anyone that I knew. It was keep the baby or abort, but this just shines a light on the beauty of adoption.
WAS HOPING FOR MORE
barbeee-5599514 September 2022
I WAS REALLY EXCITED TO THIS MOVIE. HOWEVER; LIKE EVERYTHING ELSE ABOUT ADOPTION IT'S ALL ABOUT THE CHILD AND THE AP. THERE WAS VERY LITTLE ABOUT THE BM AND WHAT SHE WENT THROUGH TO GET TO WHERE SHE DECIDED ADOPTION AND THE HELL THE BM GOES THROUGH KNOWING HER CHILD IS LEAVING THE HOSPITAL WITHOUT YOU. I AM A BM AND I EXPECTED TO CRY DURING THIS MOVIE AND DID NOT. IT WAS A GOOD MOVIE OVERALL. I THINK THEY NEED TO TRY AGAIN AND BASE THE MOVIE ON THE BM. US BM ALWAYS SEEM TO BE LEFT OUT OF THE EQUATION OR VERY LITTLE OF US IN ANY STORY. NOT JUST YOURS. MAKE A MOVIE ON ADOPTION BASED FROM THE BM'S SIDE.
Movie for sleepers
Martipee18 December 2022
As a Christian, its always good to see a movie about God and what He does in His people. This is not one of those movies. God is mentioned a couple of times at best.
It seems to be more about the benefits of adoption as it concerns one mans life of being adopted to an apparent good family. I suppose the writing and acting could have been better quality considering its a Kendrick Brothers movie, and with the experienced Kirk Cameron., but again, it didn't seem to be one of those movies which could have been.
True story it might be, but predictable and disappointing. Finishing with an anti-abortion message didn't provide any surprises either. On par with an average Hallmark movie, it might have been a lifemark for some, but for me , missed the mark completely.
It seems to be more about the benefits of adoption as it concerns one mans life of being adopted to an apparent good family. I suppose the writing and acting could have been better quality considering its a Kendrick Brothers movie, and with the experienced Kirk Cameron., but again, it didn't seem to be one of those movies which could have been.
True story it might be, but predictable and disappointing. Finishing with an anti-abortion message didn't provide any surprises either. On par with an average Hallmark movie, it might have been a lifemark for some, but for me , missed the mark completely.
True story about lives impacted by choices
donllance10 September 2022
We viewed this movie during an evening with friends. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I am very happy to have seen this movie. I understand it is based on a true story of an adoption and the lives of those who were touched by the events surrounding it.
The movie helps us to realize that the decisions we make will impact others in ways we could never imagine. Maybe that's the source of the name of the movie. It also helps us to realize that healing is not only possible but also available after making bad choices.
It's a wonderful movie and I highly recommend it. Compared to many other movies, it's definitely one not to miss. It's not just "entertainment." You leave this movie thinking about the story and how it can apply to your own life.
The movie helps us to realize that the decisions we make will impact others in ways we could never imagine. Maybe that's the source of the name of the movie. It also helps us to realize that healing is not only possible but also available after making bad choices.
It's a wonderful movie and I highly recommend it. Compared to many other movies, it's definitely one not to miss. It's not just "entertainment." You leave this movie thinking about the story and how it can apply to your own life.
Heartwarming and Funny!!!
davesollars12 September 2022
I wasn't sure what to expect but very surprised at how well the storyline played out. Great family movie if your children are a little older and can comprehend the decisions and struggles of giving up a baby. So many funny scenes too! The actors were great which is typical of the production team. No judgement here on real life situations and decisions that were made. This movie will not disappoint. Bring tissues for happy tears though. I especially liked the discussion after the movie that shed some insight into it's production. It's so nice to walk out of a movie that was entertaining, funny and great ending. Highly recommend but you better go quickly because it is only in theaters for a week.
Decent Family Movie
wevalic31 December 2022
Nothing wrong with a family movie night, conveys good wholesome values, faith, love, compassion. Story line is way above most of the raw sewage coming out of hellywood right now. Low budget, decent acting, nice way to get the family together.
Adoption has been a forgotten subject but has always been a viable alternative to ending the lives of the unborn children. The movie provides a fairly robust view of the merits and challenges that go along with adopting. It comes across as a noble pursuit.
Overall, if you had to waste time watching movies, which you shouldn't, I would choose wisely, and this is a wise choice to spend your time.
Adoption has been a forgotten subject but has always been a viable alternative to ending the lives of the unborn children. The movie provides a fairly robust view of the merits and challenges that go along with adopting. It comes across as a noble pursuit.
Overall, if you had to waste time watching movies, which you shouldn't, I would choose wisely, and this is a wise choice to spend your time.
Great Message!
vxdncyznm4 May 2023
The acting is a little under whelming, and the first 30 minutes a bit forced. But that is because of the effort to recreate a true story. This movie recreates scenes videoed by a witness to these events. I think the added difficulty of choreographing re-enacted real life home videos and acting at the same time explains why the physical acting seemed somewhat forced. However, that really adds to the effect if you know that. It really shines when clips from the home movies are shown. It adds a touch point with reality to the movie. Nice touch!
The message is really where this movie pops though!
The message is really where this movie pops though!
Excellent!
fullquiver-3478218 September 2022
This movie has everything; great story, great acting; great message....and will appeal to all ages. It is truly incredible! I just saw it tonight and already want to see it again! Highly recommend! The Kendrick brothers have outdone themselves! The most amazing thing to me was finding out that this is a true story. I did not know this going in. It is well worth every penny you spend; and it is a worthwhile investment as well. I literally cried through the whole movie. It is an emotional roller coaster, and keeps you engaged and on the edge of your seat the entire time. It will appeal to Christians and non-Christians as well. There is something in this movie everyone can relate to on some level. Don't miss out on a fantastic movie experience that you will never forget!
A wonderful, emotional movie
leighlincolnauthor19 September 2022
Okay, I know. I'm an author. I do reviews of books, not movies. But today, I'm making an exception. First, let me explain, why this movie out of all of the movies in the world. It's about adoption, finding one's birth family, and every emotional twist and turn involved. And I went with my sister. Which in itself is a rather big deal. We've known each other for less than a year, yeah, I know that sounds odd. However, I was adopted, thus, it's only recently I've connected with a small part of my birth family. So I could relate to this movie, it felt like the storyline was my life in a way. There were so many places I found myself muttering, "I feel that way", "I've done that", "I've said that", or "I've heard that from so and so". And being there with my sister made the movie even more special. Having a few more moments with her are always a blessing since we've missed out on so much.
Beyond that, I feel this is a movie anyone can relate to. More people need to understand what a beautiful gift adoption is. And how family can be created by choosing to accept someone else's child as one's own. Yet this doesn't mean that the parents who give up the child are forgotten, hated, or ignored. No, far from it. We adopted children often want to find that 'missing piece', that connection to where we came from. To hear the story of 'why'. But this journey isn't easy, it's filled with emotional landmines for everyone involved. And I love how this movie showed every angle of this very complicated puzzle - birth mother, birth father, adopted parents, and the child now eighteen at the heart of it all.
Highly recommend this movie!
Beyond that, I feel this is a movie anyone can relate to. More people need to understand what a beautiful gift adoption is. And how family can be created by choosing to accept someone else's child as one's own. Yet this doesn't mean that the parents who give up the child are forgotten, hated, or ignored. No, far from it. We adopted children often want to find that 'missing piece', that connection to where we came from. To hear the story of 'why'. But this journey isn't easy, it's filled with emotional landmines for everyone involved. And I love how this movie showed every angle of this very complicated puzzle - birth mother, birth father, adopted parents, and the child now eighteen at the heart of it all.
Highly recommend this movie!
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