Canaan Land (2020) User Reviews

Not bad!

[BandSAboutMovies · 5/10 · 31 May 2021]

Brother Billy (Richard Rossi, who also wrote, directed, produced, ran the camera, composed the music, edited and performed most of the songs for this movie) is a con man who has found his way into becoming a man of the Lord thanks to falling in love with Sister Sara (Rebecca Holden, who was April Curtis on Knight Rider and also appeared in Loverboy and The Sisterhood), whose preaching comes from a much more sincere place.

Rossi was a minister in Pittsburgh when he discovered televangelists faking miracles for money. I can only imagine he learned this during the making of His Place at WPCB-TV40 outside North Versailles. He turned the story of that moment into a play and after making two documentaries - Sister Aimee about Aimee Semple McPherson and Baseball's Last Hero: 21 Clemente Stories - he decided to film Canaan Land.

According to the film's website, this is a movie that answers a few questions, such as "What happens when a traumatized Christian who is a talented showman takes out his hurt and anger on God's people by swindling them? What happens when he falls in love with a woman who loves God and wants to help people?"

This is a faith-based movie, but I've watched plenty of those, so I was sure that this would get way too preachy. Actually, it's the opposite and does a great job of pointing out the bad parts of evangelism while showing that so many actually do have their hearts in the right place.

What's really surprising are the cameos this film has, including Cindy Williams, Sally Kirkland, Elvis' last fiancee Ginger Alden, Louis Gossett Jr., Karolyn Grimes (the real Zuzu Bailey!), Kathy Coleman (Holly from Land of the Lost) and Lynda Carter. It also has a packed cast, including Dawna Lee Heising, who has been quite good in several recent horror films I've seen (and this movie as well).

A Great Work of Art About Faith, but Not A Saccharine Faith-Based Film

[BrookefromBoston · 9/10 · 3 January 2021]

What a journey. In the first half of the film, I empathized with female preacher Sister Sara, played so well by Rebecca Holden. Like her, and many women, I had my heart broken by a narcissistic man. As her boyfriend, Brother Billy, is revealed to have a trail of MeToo women he used for sex or money, I find myself despising his loathsome behavior. Yet, as Billy's backstory is revealed, and the tone of the film changes, morphing from comedy to drama, my heart breaks for Billy and I understand, in part, why he does what he does, why it is in his nature. I cried for Billy. The bittersweet ending is perfect. This is not a typical saccharine Christian movie. It is a great work of art.

A must watch

[mangosteen55 · 10/10 · 27 January 2021]

I finally got to see this controversial film! It was seriously well done, great acting and directing by Richard Rossi who just made everything seem so real. I guess you can say it's made on an indie budget but it works in their favor - seems like your almost watching a documentary unfold. I also read some articles that they are up for the Oscars so hoping for the best and I can see why Televangelists are trying to ban this film. Keep the films coming.

A thought provoking and refreshing film

[plost · 9/10 · 7 February 2021]

This was truly a labor of love for an issue that is deep on the hearts of the churched and unchurched but not openly discussed.. there is something in this movie for everyone...Richard is bold enough to take on this largely indiscussed topic of con men in the church arena and gives a great performance.. it will help tear down the boulders that have been erected for those who have been hurt by hypocrisy... and bring healing and insight on distinguishing a fake faith from the real thing.

A different kind of movie, like everyone is always asking for

[adoshna · 10/10 · 10 January 2021]

Like it's companion novel, CANAAN LAND is heartfelt, edgy, spiritual romance t. I was able to finish the novel in in two nights although it it 400 pages long and I am a slow reader, part of it being that it is a very easy read, but it is also very entertaining and engrossing. In any case, both projects spring from the depths of his heart. The people, places and things are richly detailed. Each character is shown to be laboring under his or her own burden for which he needs deliverance, as opposed to simply trashing an opportunistic minister, and by extension, the faith he claims to represent, generating despair. In the end, Brother Billy is presented with a choice, but either way he turns he must face the consequences of his actions. Rather than a quick and easy, cheap faith as often suggested in Christian dramas, forgiveness does not always negate the lingering effects of bad decisions but rather, in the real world, puts the ball again back into our court. I was involved with the movie but watch it and see if you don't agree.

Elmer Gantry for the 21st Century Internet Age

[jacksbernstein · 9/10 · 2 January 2021]

I have thought from time to time about the Oscar-winning film "Elmer Gantry" (1960), starring Burt Lancaster, and wondered what the story of the con man preacher who falls for a virginal sincere Christian woman would be like if it was done today as a contemporary piece.

"Canaan Land" is not a remake of Elmer Gantry, but Rossi, who has played Elmer Gantry on stage to stellar reviews, has been influenced by the classics, yet reinvents the story for the 21st century internet age.

Rebecca Holden of Knight Rider fame sings and acts the part of the female evangelist Sister Sara well and is very well cast. Rossi as the con man Brother Billy Gantry gives the character an odd, childlike quirkiness that somehow bewitches me into rooting for him as the rogue, petty hustler.

The film in general has an odd atmosphere. It was shot in Hollywood on a micro-budget yet somehow transports us into a mythic place of dancing clowns, rock and rollers, Pentecostals, a motley collection of saints and sinners.

The film's poster shows the comedy and campiness of the first half of the film, but once you are drawn in there is a shift into drama as Brother Billy's paramour and preaching partner Sister Sara realizes he is fake and doesn't really believe.

In addition to Rossi and Holden, other standout performances are Isaac Bar-Jonah as a young black man who helps Gantry with his cons, and Jozy Pollock as a spiritual mother to Sister Sara.

"Get the gold dust!" Brother Billy yells, in his gold glitter jacket that has spawned a fashion trend and is sold in stores worldwide as the "Brother Billy Canaan Land jacket." There is a reason Billy's look and eccentricities have become iconic. Rossi has tapped into archetypes both in the characters and the story.

If capturing the audience and making you watch it is the criteria for a review, it is a near perfect film. Some who expect every film to be mega-budget may say it's only lack is Rossi made it by the force of his will, with volunteers shooting on whatever cameras or cellphones they had. As an outsider to the studio system, he has triumphed. He got it made, by God, and we can watch his passion project and let it feed our souls.

An Entertaining Look at Religion : The Power of Prayer , & the Hope of Redemption !

[timodo · 10/10 · 3 June 2021]

In his first major Film Presentation , veteran actor Richard Rossi portrays 'Brother Billy' the most prolific religious Con-Man since Burt Lancaster's 1956 performance in " RAINMAKER " , which puts him in pretty prestigious Company ! He's a Drifter , a Swindler , & a Thief : & he sets his eyes on ensnaring 'Sister Sara Sunday' & Her Truly Religious & Philanthropic Ministry . The Good Sister is played by Screen Legend Rebecca Holden ; & She does so Flawlessly !

In one of the most amusing scenes , the wholly Desirable & Lovely Dawna Lee Heising displays Her Bounteous Comedic Skills as 'Connie' , the Rich , Mansion Living , Beverly Hills Beauty that Billy has Bedded & Fleeced before being exiled . Another of Billy's Gorgeous Conquests is Mila Perkins as 'Pary' , who he merely relieves of Her Jeep . All His other dalliances are revealed throughout this light-hearted religious-romp , as are the people that he just used & screwed-over .

Incredibly Lovely Alex Rinehart makes an appearance as 'Angel' ; & that She Truly is ; & Gorgeous Ramiara Eve is an Investigative 'Reporter' , Hot on Billy's Tail !

There is a massive amount of Special Guest STARS Personal Appearances , beginning with The Original Wonder Woman HerSelf : Lynda Carter ! Others are : Louis Gossett Jr. , Kathy Garver - 'Cissy' from "Family Affair' , Karolyn Grimes - Zuzu from " It's a Wonderful Life " .... Remember 'Zuzu's Petals' ? ; & Many More !

It actually makes a Great Christmas Season Movie ; but it's religious pontifications can be pondered all Year Long !

How does it all turn out ? ... Does Love Win ? ... Can Devine Love replace Carnal Pleasures ? ..... All will be Revealed in the End !

As for me , ,,,, I'm More than Happy to Watch a Movie with Rebecca Holden , Lynda Carter , & Dawna Lee Heising in it All Day Every Day .... They are All just as Beautiful & Magnificent Today as They were when I first saw them on Screen .... Maybe even More-so !!!

Make Your Choice Now to enter " Canaan Land " ! You won't regret it !!!

Worth watching

[achimfriend-16139 · 10/10 · 23 March 2021]

I rarely watch movies these days. Not because there are no movies which are produced well. All the money and craftmanship put into them, all the visual effects are impressive, but I'm still bored. I repeat it, I'm bored. Because my soul is not touched. I'm looking for stories where my human experience and also my deepest longings as a human being are explored. I'm looking for credible portrayals of redemption, of a "much, much greater love" (song at the end of Canaan Land), lifting my spirit, amazing me, making me think. I'm looking for characters that show me what love and life are all about. Canaan Land is such a rare film. It's been made with a tiny budget, but I prefer it over so many multi-million dollar productions because of that.

Richard Rossi does it again

[santamoniica · 9/10 · 27 January 2021]

How talented is Richard Rossi! Great acting and honestly a very relatable topic as I've been in a church all my life and seen some corrupt things. I must also mention Dawna Lee Heising, wow she is one beautiful actresses... so glad they put her in this film. In all, a suspenseful film that will have you at the edge of your seat. Controversial? Yes, Entertaining? You bet! Thanks for making this. Canaan Land is a must watch in my book!

BETTER THAN ELMER GANTRY

[catholicnewswire · 10/10 · 14 January 2021]

I just watched Canaan Land and I must say, I didn't expect to be so powerfully touched. I was weeping profusely at the end. I was intellectually prepared for a wallop, having read Pope Francis statement about the film:

"Richard Rossi is standing for good and against evil," Pope Francis said. "He is a voice for the poor who have been taken advantage of by those misrepresenting Christ in a culture of greed. He contrasts the love of God with those who teach blessings are bought with donations, which is idolatry."

But I didn't know that Canaan Land would have a documentary-feel with actors acting, but like real people. It was well done in this way, like Frost/Nixon by Ron Howard. As the opening scene sets up, it was as if hidden cameras were bugged everywhere catching real life.

Although I love Burt Lancaster who won an Oscar for Elmer Gantry in 1960 playing a similar religious con man, I think Richard Rossi was better in this 21st century equivalent character. In some places Rossi reminded me of an eccentric like Woody Allen. Burt Lancaster's phoniness was so over-the-top. Rossi's Brother Billy Gantry was over-the-top when it was called for in the TV preaching scenes, but he created a character far more subtle, layered with subtext in his con and ability to manipulate "love offerings" from the gullible sheep. Rebecca Holden was great in the role of Sister Sara, and has a majestic singing voice. Isaac Bar-jonah who played Laz was in the top three performances, along with Rossi and Holden. His star will be on the rise because of this film. I got chills from the message of Laz's final scene, that what happens between us and God is sacred and is cheapened by televangelists. The movie is an entry for the 2021 Oscars Best Picture and other awards. It is a small film, a David vs. Goliath, without the same money chest to wine and dine Hollywood elite, but if it is given a fair chance, it deserves nominations.

Worth it!

[jjohndalton · 10/10 · 31 January 2021]

This is such a controversial film it will get some people angry but it is what it is. Loved the con man preacher who played a very charismatic character and as the story got deeper Sister Sara really shined as well. I'm expecting to see more of them as this makes the film awards circuit. God bless!

Judge the Film On Its Merits

[NYMovieLoverSusie · 10/10 · 26 January 2021]

Richard Rossi deserves a Best Actor nomination for Brother Billy. He carries the film from beginning to end in the sense that I can't stop watching him and wanting to know what happens next. I saw on Fox News a commentator express concern that Netflix has spent millions on ads in The Hollywood trades to make sure their candidates are the ones predicted to win and also keep with the quotas of rectifying the Oscars being mostly white in the past, so the Best actor nominees the trades are predicting are all black actors in Netflix projects. I think it's highly unfair to Rossi, but his work is so stellar I am hopeful Academy members look past the politics and give Rossi the nomination he deserves. Also strong in the film is Rebecca Holden as Sister Sara. She is perfect casting for the part and has already won a Best Actress award for her acting in the film. (I saw this on the film's official website). Speaking of black actors, Isaac Bar-jonah deserves a Best Supporting Actor nomination for playing Laz. One of the best scenes in the film is when he and Billy talk over the ethics of what they are doing in conning people. Laz conscience is bothering him and Billy talks him out of the guilt he is feeling. I read that Jozy Pollock and Rosetta Walker are also under consideration for their excellent Supporting Actress work. This film has a multi-cultural cast, well-balanced of different races, ages, and ethnicities. Judge the film on its merits and whether you like it or not. Don't discriminate because of its small budget or because of racial factors.

A Work of Art About True vs. False Faith

[BrookefromBoston · 9/10 · 3 January 2021]

This movie grabbed me and wouldn't let go. At first, the character I felt the most for was Sister Sara Sunday (played by Rebecca Holden). Like her, and many other women, I've fallen for the charming narcissist like Brother Billy (played by Richard Rossi). As the film progressed, and more layers are revealed, I gained insight and compassion into why Billy is the way he is. This is the best film I've ever seen about spiritual issues, contrasting real faith with fake religion. It is a work of art about faith, but not a saccharine treacly film like most "Christian movies."

Underdog Oscar Contender

[IndieFilmJudge · 10/10 · 27 December 2020]

CANAAN LAND is a film so well-acted and well paced it had me captured for its full 113 minute running time. Richard Rossi's nuanced acting was stellar as con man Brother Billy. His womanizing and hustling was despicable, yet somehow his childlike qualities and subtext of brokenness made me like him and want to see him redeemed. Rebecca Holden was lovely as Sister Sara, the sincere Christian, and she did a great job both acting and singing the Oscar-worthy duet end title song "A Much, Much Greater Love" produced by Grammy winner Joel Diamond, and Rebecca's duet singing partner is Grammy winner Jason Crabb. I am supporting this underdog Oscar contender because it truly breaks out of the formula of so many movies to tell a real story based on minister-turned-moviemaker Richard Rossi's pain and past experiences as a former faith healer. Rossi takes the concept of a religious faith-based film and turns it on its head, while still delivering a spiritual message of hope and faith.

Support this film

[demifanntastico · 10/10 · 30 January 2021]

I read the book on Kindle and had no idea the film was out till a few days ago. Thankfully the film is as good if not even better then the book. Richard Rossi blew me away with his performance as the con man preacher and really exposing religious deception and for those who fall for it. Realistic, engaging characters and ends with a positive message. This could easily be made into a TV series by the way. Mabye in the near future? I hope to see more from Richard Rossi. Thanks for making this and congrats on Canaan Land's success.

A real love story

[natalieannabelle · 10/10 · 29 January 2021]

Such good plot twists throughout the film I was at the edge of my seat. Rebecca Holden nailed her performance and completely sold the story as did the main character. Hope this film gets more attention it rightfully deserves. I'll be sure to recommend this to my friends and family. Canaan Land rocks.