I was sad to read the rather narrow and cynical view of one other person on this website, who seemed more interested in Hollywood glitz than real stories of real human lives being affected by a real God. I'd say a few commenters completely missed the message of this film. The story is well-balanced in addressing both the childlike faith that boldly receives miracles, as well as the hope and trust that gets one through life's most painful tests -- those times when it's hard to understand where God is in the midst of personal devastation. Sadly, there are even cynical Christians (demonstrated by the comments of a few on this site) who struggle with believing that God does ALWAYS comes through for us, even if the result doesn't always look like we thought it should.
I'm frankly tired of Hollywood "hype" movies that are only someone's fanciful imagination about life, or what someone wishes about life, or someone's cynicism about life -- though imaginative, fictional, art forms can be marvelously inspiring as well. But the best and most refreshing movies I've seen lately, like this one, have been true stories about ordinary people whose genuine faith in God changes their lives & the lives of those around them. Having grown up in the Southern USA under the last days of segregation and race riots, I found a film that includes the overcoming of racism as an important sub-plot still badly needed in this generation today. (That alone makes the film worthwhile, even for avowed atheists who at least recognize the evil of racism.)
The overall message that simple faith is more powerful than logic, personal ability, or common sense alone is one badly needed today by a self-worshiping, post-modern society that has become far too cynical & proud.
I'm frankly tired of Hollywood "hype" movies that are only someone's fanciful imagination about life, or what someone wishes about life, or someone's cynicism about life -- though imaginative, fictional, art forms can be marvelously inspiring as well. But the best and most refreshing movies I've seen lately, like this one, have been true stories about ordinary people whose genuine faith in God changes their lives & the lives of those around them. Having grown up in the Southern USA under the last days of segregation and race riots, I found a film that includes the overcoming of racism as an important sub-plot still badly needed in this generation today. (That alone makes the film worthwhile, even for avowed atheists who at least recognize the evil of racism.)
The overall message that simple faith is more powerful than logic, personal ability, or common sense alone is one badly needed today by a self-worshiping, post-modern society that has become far too cynical & proud.