Soul Surfer

Born in Hawaii in 1990, Bethany Hamilton started surfing at an early age, fueled with a passion for the waves. Her vivacious spirit and extraordinary talent led her to win a surfing competition by the age of eight. In a sudden shift of fate, Hamilton’s aspirations suffered a colossal jolt when she was attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark while surfing with her friend, Alana Blanchard. The attack led to the loss of her left arm.

The film “Soul Surfer” takes the viewers on a stirring journey chronicling Hamilton’s convalescence. It demonstrates Bethany’s unwavering determination and the unconditional support of her family and church community. Amid the struggles and sorrow, one can instinctively feel the undercurrent of faith that guides Bethany in her dark hours, ultimately becoming her source of strength.

The main role of Bethany is deftly handled by AnnaSophia Robb, presenting a robust portrayal of Bethany’s spirit. The supporting performances by Dennis Quaid and Helen Hunt, who play Bethany’s parents, add further depth to this rhythmic narrative.

“Soul Surfer” speaks volumes about handling mental trauma. It brings light to a teenager’s mental fight against body-image issues, presenting how Bethany deals with her changed appearance and the inherently uncomfortable public gaze. The film gently immerses its audience in the sea of life lessons revolving around change, acceptance, and self-love.

 

Fireproof 

The movie revolves around the life of Fire Chief Caleb Holt, portrayed by Kirk Cameron, who struggles to save his own failing marriage. His wife, Catherine, played by Erin Bethea, grows weary with their deteriorating relationship. The couple falls into a continuous cycle of fights and disagreements that eventually push them to the brink of divorce.

The turning point comes when Caleb’s father hands him a book called ‘The Love Dare’. This 40-day guide challenges Caleb to make daily gestures of love towards his wife. Initially resistant, Caleb eventually becomes receptive to the transformative changes it brings.

“Fireproof” showcases a mature handling of the marital relationship. It departs from the rosy and idealistic depictions of love, portraying instead the hard work and dedication that relationships need to thrive. The movie communicates that love is a commitment that demands patience, sacrifice, and a constant choice to keep loving despite the challenges.

Caleb’s journey is about discovering his faith and relationship with God. His father’s spiritual guidance influenced him tremendously throughout the process. The film subtly introduces viewers to the role of faith in one’s life, illustrating how it can bring about immense change and resilience in personal trials.

 

God’s Not Dead 

The movie chronicles the story of a devout Christian college freshman, Josh Wheaton, who enters a philosophy class taught by the vehemently atheistic Professor Radisson. On the first day of class, Radisson demands his students declare ‘God is Dead’ by putting it in writing to pass the course. Josh cannot reconcile with this mandate due to his robust faith and instead chooses to challenge the professor.

The film crafts engaging debates as the primary tool of plot progression, with Josh presenting arguments over weeks to persuade his peers and professor that God is not dead. These debates offer the viewers a refreshing opportunity to contemplate their beliefs about God’s existence, prevailing perceptions, and the place of religion in society.

Josh stands steadfast in his beliefs even when his academic future is at stake, highlighting the strength of his faith. This assertion provides viewers with a life lesson about the remaining firm in their values when facing adversities.

The film urges its audience to steer away from accepting information passively and instead encourages them to challenge, question, and understand it thoroughly.

Josh’s faith forms his entire identity. This portrayal nudges viewers to contemplate the role of faith in their lives and its impact on their identities.

“God’s Not Dead” encourages open dialogue between contrasting beliefs without favoring a particular side. Everyone’s viewpoint is represented without partiality. This lends the film credibility and harnesses the viewers’ intellectual curiosity.

 

Facing the Giants

The storyline is about Grant Taylor, the head coach of an underperforming high school football team, The Shiloh Eagles. After several unsuccessful seasons, the threat of losing his job, combined with personal challenges, adds to Taylor’s mounting despair and frustration. Taylor goes on a transformative journey that changes the course of his and his team’s lives.

A turning point in “Facing the Giants” is when Taylor decides to model a new coaching philosophy based on unwavering faith in God and excellence off the field, irrespective of the game’s outcome. This decision marks a significant shift that influences his players. The movie expertly portrays how Taylor’s steadfast faith stimulates tremendous improvement in his players, both as athletes and as individuals.

“Facing the Giants” also tells about personal challenges and how faith in God provides strength and resilience to overcome these obstacles. The film shows how Taylor tackles his life struggles, imparting an important message – that faith can convert setbacks to comebacks. The narrative’s focus on handling personal hardships resonates with many viewers, providing solace and inspiration.

 

I’m Not Ashamed

“I’m Not Ashamed” is a gripping film about Rachel Joy Scott, the first victim of the infamous 1999 Columbine High School massacre. It is providing an intimate look into her experiences, thoughts, struggles, and unwavering faith in God. Based on her journals, the film portrays Rachel’s spiritual way, spotlighting her committed efforts to live by her belief that one person’s kindness could change the world.

The film brings to light how Rachel’s firm belief in God enabled her to navigate the tumultuous terrain of adolescence with extraordinary strength and grace. Her deep-rooted faith inspires her to reach out to the misunderstood, the marginalized, and the bullied among her peers.

While the tragedy at Columbine plays a significant role in the movie, “I’m Not Ashamed” primarily illuminates Rachel’s inspired life rather than her untimely death. The storyline vividly captures the highs and lows of teenage life, from romantic relationships, friendships, and peer pressure, to the quest for social acceptance. The film suggests that turning to faith can offer solace and guidance during these challenging times.