Movie Review
Film lifts up faith, family
By Edward Terry, The Layman, August 20, 2010
Some movies are just relatable, thereby making them fun to watch. Who hasn’t asked the ubiquitous question “What If …?,” or wasted a few minutes daydreaming about how one’s life might be different.
Yet the newly released faith-based film entitled “What If …” is much more than a movie to which we all can relate. It’s a simple presentation of the Gospel, wrapped up in a fun, family-friendly film that raises important questions about choices, marriage and following God’s plans rather than your own.
Debby Ryan and Taylor Groothuis, who play Ben Walker’s daughters in “What If …”, take a moment to pray for the confused father.
“What If …” premiers in a limited release Aug. 20 in theaters across the country, with more screens scheduled for the weeks to come. Produced by Pure Flix and directed by Dallas Jenkins, its makers are counting on local churches and Christian moviegoers to help in creating a buzz that will translate to additional screens in the future.
Drawing inspiration from popular hits “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “The Family,” the movie stars Kevin Sorbo, Kristy Swanson and John Ratzenberger.
The quality of the film and its actors definitely stands out in comparing “What If …” with its sister productions. There’s good chemistry among the actors, with the youngest stars, Debby Ryan and Taylor Groothuis, stealing the show at times.
The first 15 minutes or so is a little too complicated for young children – lots of talk about investment, business strategies, fancy cars and such. If you can get the little ones over that hump – and I’ll admit my little ones were getting squirmy – they’ll be rewarded with a fun journey that is touching and easy to follow for the next 75 minutes.
The movie’s funniest moments come early on when Ben Walker, played by Sorbo, is in disbelief when an angel informs him of “The Great What If …” concept. A moment that clergy and elders are likely to enjoy is when Walker’s brought to the front of a church and told “we’re ready for you pastor,” and he’s totally unprepared. The 2-minute sermon that follows is memorable, to say the least.
Played by John Ratzenberger (best known for playing lovable postman Cliff Clavin on “Cheers”), Mike the Angel undoubtedly will be a favorite character. Not only does he demonstrate that angels “are pretty tough,” he also brings dry wit and valuable wisdom. His regular appearances at just the right moment keeps viewers grounded in the “What If …” parallel universe.
Without giving too much away, Walker grows into his new role as a father, husband and pastor with help from Mike the Angel, and especially his loving wife and daughters. In a poignant moment, Walker shares the Gospel and the whole experience becomes clear to the character that started the movie as a cross between Ebenezer Scrooge and Gordon Gekko.
The ending, in my opinion, is exactly as it should be and should leave the viewer contemplative and satisfied for having shared the journey.
The movie is sweet and redeeming from start to finish. Aside from an over-the-head-of-anyone-under-10 start, “What If …” is appropriate for children 5 and up, and especially appropriate for adults who need a subtle reminder that faith and family should be at the very top of the priority list.
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