Michael's Movie Grade: B
A very moving film.
This film from Angel Studios is about the plight of Syrian refuges through different stories that involve five different strangers. These strangers' lives all end up effecting others in profound ways, some positive and some negative. Though this movie is made by the Christian Angel Studios, it is not the typical feel-good sugar-coated Christian film that one might expect it to be. For the most part this film favors a sense of gritty realism. This even done to the point where different main characters speak different languages throughout, with English subtitles through it all. This may be alienating to much of Angel Studio's typical audience, who may not be used to having to read subtitles for so much of a movie. However, it does make this movie feel more real and adds much to its emotional resonance that way. Speaking of emotional resonance, this film is very throughout. The characters may not be the most complex but fulfill their job very well. We care about them and their plight. I will not give away any of the emotional scenes in this movie, but I will say that some will really have an impact on you.
Though this may not be an overtly Christian movie, you won't find a single bible verse recited nor any character giving their lives to God. However, it focuses on one of the most important Christian values, compassion for others. In today's climate this is a value that is more important than ever all over the world.
This movie does have the problem of trying to fit too many stories into too small of a runtime. This can make elements feel rushed and characters feel underdeveloped.
All in all, a very well-done film that leaves an emotion punch at times.
-Michael J. Ruhland
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