christian movie reviews 2021

16 Movies About Christianity That Critics Loved, Ranked According to Rotten Tomatoes

These films about faith garnered praise from audiences and critics alike.

Movies about faith and religion generally have a reputation for being subpar, often laughable exercises in message over substance. It's lamentable that faith-based audiences haven't had more selection historically. Especially considering the size of the demographic, it's a pity this has long been the case.

One of the surprise breakout hits of 2023, Jesus Revolution scored well with audiences and exceeded expectations at the box office. Critics generally endorsed the faith-based drama, with the film hovering just above a "Fresh" score on Rotten Tomatoes. Movies dealing with faith can be challenging to evaluate, especially from a critical angle. But as films that deal with themes of Christianity have become more popular in recent years , many have scored well on Rotten Tomatoes with both audiences and critics.

9 'Breakthrough' (2019)

Watch on Netflx

8 'Ben-Hur' (1959)

Rotten tomatoes score: 85%.

One of the most spectacular period movies on record, The Best Years of Our Lives helmer William Wyler 's astounding epic is based on the most popular Christian novel of the 19th century: Lew Wallace's Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ . The story follows a wrongly convicted and enslaved Jewish noble whose adventures parallel, and even intertwine, with the story of Jesus.

Featuring Charlton Heston 's best performance, Ben-Hur won a record 11 Oscars (only matched by Titanic and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King ). The climactic chariot race is still among the most rousing action set pieces ever committed to film. It's definitely worth mentioning the 1925 silent MGM feature here as well, a landmark in its own right that every film fan should experience. A laughably under-cooked 2016 remake came and went.

After a Jewish prince is betrayed and sent into slavery by a Roman friend in 1st-century Jerusalem, he regains his freedom and comes back for revenge.

Watch on MGM+

7 'The Tree of Life' (2011)

Rotten tomatoes score: 84%.

Director Terrence Malick's Tree of Life is arguably one of the first and biggest mainstream films to deal with the concept of faith, pulling explicitly from the Bible, especially the Book of Job. The movie follows the adult Jack O'Brien, played by Sean Penn as he reflects on his childhood, his parents being played by Brad Pitt and Jessica Chastain .

One of the most theologically profound aspects of this movie is the attention it gives to two opposing forces of humanity: the way of grace and the way of nature. The adult Jack O'Brien feels both of these forces within himself as he remembers his childhood. His mother who is kind, nurturing, and patient, embodies the way of grace. His father who is short-tempered, restless, and at times cruel, exemplifies the way of nature. The adult Jack tries to work out who he is as these dual forces battle within him like they do for all of us. Though it's somewhat divisive, Tree of Life was an overall triumph, garnering three Oscar nods including Best Picture.

The Tree of Life

Watch on Hulu

6 'The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind' (2019)

Rotten tomatoes score: 86%.

Based on the true story of William Kamkwamba , The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind follows William ( Maxwell Simba ) as he is forced to drop out of school due to a famine that devastates his village. Despite having no formal education, William is motivated to find a solution to the issues affecting his community, especially the starvation and drought that endanger their way of life. He becomes passionate about using wind energy to power a water pump and irrigate the fields, giving a lifeline for his village's survival after being inspired by a book he finds in the neighborhood library.

The movie's themes of resiliency, ingenuity, and the strength of the human spirit are set against this backdrop as it emphasizes how faith can bring comfort, motivation, and a sense of purpose during trying times. Although it's frequently tough to watch due to its honest depiction of human suffering, this only helps its high points pay off and makes the movie one of the most inspirational stories about human resilience and faith.

The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind

Watch on Netflix

5 'Calvary' (2014)

Rotten tomatoes score: 89%.

Calvary follows the story of a sincere, yet imperfect priest seeking to minister to a town that is burdened by sin and doubt. After an anonymous source warns Father James will pay for the sins of other priests with his life, the weight of the problems of the town seems to grow, and it seems there is a limit to the reconciliation Father James is able to usher in. Brendan Gleeson plays the priest Father James perfectly.

The film provides an interesting premise: rather than telling a story of a bad priest in a good world, this is the story of a good priest in a bad world. The values of forgiveness and restoration are strong, though they are always contrasted with despair and melancholy. Nearly a decade before his Oscar-nominated turn in The Banshees of Inisherin , Gleeson displayed his distinct gift for grounding dark comedy in layers of humanity.

Rent on Amazon

4 'Women Talking' (2023)

Rotten tomatoes score: 90%.

Women Talking is just what it sounds like. The film centers around a conversation between female representatives of a Mennonite community in Bolivia who must decide together how to respond to a crisis in their community. Over a period of four years, the women have been attacked in the night by certain unknown men in their community. They have a small window of time when the men are away from the colony and the women must decide -- should they run, fight, or do nothing?

This movie grapples with the question so many Christians deal with: What happens when I'm suffering and God is silent? Working out the answer to this question is exquisitely achieved in this film, which calls itself "a work of female imagination." The cast and crew were made up of nearly all females, with particularly excellent performances by Claire Foy and Rooney Mara . In the end, the women make their decision communally. They share their stories, their anger, and their hurts. In the end, they do come to a decision, and while they know it's right, it doesn't mean it's easy.

Women Talking

3 'first reformed' (2018), rotten tomatoes score: 94%.

First Reformed deals with crises of faith. Ethan Hawke plays Father Toller, pastor of a historic church in upstate New York with a dying congregation. Amanda Seyfried plays Mary, a pregnant woman worried about her husband, a man consumed by the thoughts that the earth will become uninhabitable for their child due to climate change. These characters come together, dealing with the weightiness of their personal lives, local politics, and a worldwide existential threat.

The most marvelous thing about this film is the relationship between its two main characters, played by Hawke and Seyfried. They're calm and understated, yet carrying the weight of the world within themselves. Yet this resonates as a human experience. Humans carry on in the face of death, loss, failure, uncertainty, and fear. These two characters look to Christianity for answers, but the answers don't come easily.

First Reformed

In a narrative that combines spirituality with environmental and personal crises, a pastor faces a profound moral and existential dilemma after meeting an eco-activist couple. As he delves deeper into the environmental cause, his growing radicalization confronts him with troubling questions about his capacity for violence and his commitment to his faith.

2 'Mass' (2021)

Rotten tomatoes score: 95%.

Mass is the story of one conversation that takes place entirely in a church basement. Two sets of parents who are connected by tragedy meet in an attempt to heal from the deaths of both of their sons. And while the setting is simple, the movie deals with the incredibly heavy issues of blame, guilt, and reconciliation. The movie is the directorial debut of Fran Kranz (he played the pothead in Cabin in the Woods ), who also wrote and directed.

Reed Birney , Ann Dowd , Jason Isaacs , and Martha Plimpton all give moving performances of parents dealing with grief and hurt. The four of them create a lasting tension in the room together that makes trudging through their feelings difficult and volatile. Despite overwhelmingly positive response from critics as well as audiences ( the audience score on Rotten Tomatoes is 91%), Mass more or less went under the radar upon release. It's one of the most powerful drama movies so far this decade, a gut punch about grace and redemption.

Years after a tragic incident that changed their lives, two sets of parents agree to meet in a small church basement to discuss the unimaginable pain caused by their sons. Through their conversation, they confront their deepest grief and seek a path toward understanding and reconciliation.

1 'The Passion of Joan of Arc' (1928)

Rotten tomatoes score: 98%.

A breathtaking triumph of the silent era, Carl Theodor Dreyer 's masterpiece depicts the trial and execution of the eponymous defender of France who claimed to hear the voice of God. The film was released eight years after the Roman Catholic Church made Joan of Arc a patron saint.

Stylistically, The Passion of Joan of Arc is the place where French Impressionism, German Expressionism and Soviet Montage meet. The director was famously meticulous in research surrounding the life and death of the subject, the production exquisitely framing Renée Jeanne Falconetti's performance that's long been regarded as among the best in film. Few films if any have relied so heavily on close-ups to such remarkable effect.

The Passion of Joan of Arc

Watch on Tubi

NEXT: The Best Religious Horror Movies

Featured Essay The Love of God An essay by Sam Storms Read Now
Faithfulness of God
Saving Grace
Adoption by God

U.S. Edition

Arts & Culture
Bible & Theology
Christian Living
Current Events
Faith & Work
As In Heaven
Gospelbound
Post-Christianity?
TGC Podcast
You're Not Crazy
Churches Planting Churches
Help Me Teach The Bible
Word Of The Week
Upcoming Events
Past Conference Media
Foundation Documents
Church Directory
Global Resourcing
Donate to TGC

To All The World

The world is a confusing place right now. We believe that faithful proclamation of the gospel is what our hostile and disoriented world needs. Do you believe that too? Help TGC bring biblical wisdom to the confusing issues across the world by making a gift to our international work.

The Best Movies of 2021

More By Brett McCracken

Twenty years ago this month, Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring released in theaters. I was a freshman at Wheaton College and went to see it with a group of dorm friends. It was a magical, memorable movie-going experience; awesomely cinematic and transportive. In retrospect, I wonder if that trilogy was the last great “big” cinematic event. With the exception of Christopher Nolan’s films and Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life , few movie-going experiences have matched the awe I experienced watching Lord of the Rings . Will we ever have movies like that again?

Movie-watching is changing. The screens are smaller, the experience less communal. For all but the biggest-tentpole superhero movies , most people seem to prefer watching movies from the convenience of home . How will the evolving economics of Hollywood change the nature of the films produced? Time will tell. In the meantime, interesting and soul-enriching films are still being made.

On that note, the following is my list of the best films of 2021. These are the movies that, in my estimation, were the most excellent, memorable, thoughtful, theologically interesting, and redemptive releases of the year. As always, viewers should use discretion in terms of content. Though I chose only movies that are in some way edifying—depicting goodness, truth, or beauty in ways Christian viewers can celebrate—several films on my list are rated R or TV-MA and should be viewed with caution and discernment.

Here are my 10 favorites, 10 honorable mentions, and 10 excellent documentaries released in 2021.

Few films gave me more joy this year than Kenneth Branagh’s semi-autobiographical film about a working class family in 1960s Belfast. Though The Troubles of Protestant-Catholic conflict are in the background in important ways—the foreground here is family: three generations of a Northern Irish Protestant family who have called Belfast home for ages. I love so much about this movie: its depictions of traditional married love; the awe and innocence of 9-year-old Buddy; the beautiful embrace of membership in community and place; the celebration of cinema and beauty (dancing!) even amid the reality of death. But perhaps most of all, I love how Belfast captures the sehnsucht longing that another Northern Irish Protestant—C. S. Lewis— once described . As permanent as it feels in our hearts, “home” in this life is always a phantom, and family a photo-book of ever-fading memories. Yet even as they slip away, these things point our souls in the direction of the permanent place and everlasting community for which we were made. Now in theaters or available to stream at home . Rated PG-13 .

I went into Dune with zero context, having never read Frank Herbert’s novel or seen the 1984 movie version. I worried I’d be lost in such a complex sci-fi universe—and I was, a little. But it’s a testament to director Denis Villeneuve’s command of the cinematic language that tracking with the intricacies of plot didn’t matter as much as the big-canvas power of awesome visuals, sound design, and deep immersion into a well-established world. Villeneuve doesn’t spoon-feed audiences with tiresome exposition—he simply says, “Put on your seatbelt and come along for a ride.” What a ride it is ( read TGC’s review ). More than any movie this year, Dune gave me hope that big screen, big movies, with big ideas, have a future. In theaters now . Rated PG-13 .

3. Nine Days

When it released in July, I called Edson Oda’s Nine Days “ 2021’s most spiritually curious film .” I’d still stand by that. A Spike Jonze-esque surrealist drama about “soul candidates” vying for a chance at life, the indie film explores the most fundamental questions of existence. Why do we exist when we didn’t have to? If an omnipotent God has the power to create life, why doesn’t he intervene when life goes so excruciatingly awry? Even if not all of the film’s ideas are logical or sound, enough of them are provocative and profound to warrant the applause of thoughtful Christian viewers. This is the rare film that takes pain seriously but sincerely leads audiences to appreciate the preciousness, and sacred mystery, of life. Available to rent . Rated R.

4. The Card Counter

If you’ve seen Paul Schrader’s First Reformed (which topped my list in 2018 ), you know the Calvin College-educated director has a complicated Christian faith. Though less overt in its religious concerns, Schrader’s The Card Counter —starring Oscar Isaac as the titular character—is no less steeped in theology and Christian ideas like atonement, forgiveness, love, and reconciliation. What is Schrader trying to say about these biblical themes? It’s a fascinating film to watch and discuss ( read my TGC review ) because the answer to that question is far from obvious. Available to rent . Rated R.

5. A Quiet Place Part II

Sometimes you understand what you love about a movie by thinking about it in contrast to another. This was my exercise in June, when I saw A Quiet Place 2 and Cruella back-to-back. The piece I wrote about the two films —how one examines the making of heroism, while the other ponders the origins of vice—was probably the most enjoyable film analysis I wrote in 2021. It made me appreciate how John Krasinski’s film—in addition to being just a really taut, well-made thriller—effortlessly depicted the goodness and legacy of heroic, sacrificial fathers and mothers. Hollywood doesn’t love celebrating the virtues of traditional, one-dad-and-one-mom families. But audiences do, because it’s beautiful to see. Watch on Paramount+ . Rated PG-13 .

Rare is the film that subverts expectations and surprises you. But when movies like this come along, out of the blue, it’s a thrill. Pig was the surprise, subversive, grace-soaked film of 2021. Nicolas Cage turns in one of his career-best performances as Robin, a Portland chef whose career lost its course after his wife’s death. When his beloved truffle-hunting pig is stolen, Robin is sent to the brink. A film about how we respond to tragedy and injustice, Pig is both timely and timeless. As Mitch Wiley wrote in his TGC review , it’s “one of the most subtly theological films of the year.” Watch on Hulu . Rated R .

7. C’mon C’mon

Parenting is scary. That’s the short summary of Mike Mills’s resonant film, starring Joaquin Phoenix as an uncle who must watch over his nephew (Woody Norman) for an extended period of time. I don’t think I’ve seen a film that captures so well the unique terror, confusion, exhaustion, and joy of 21st-century parenting. But even while C’mon C’mon is honest about the challenges of raising kids in a world fraught with peril, it makes a beautiful case as to why it’s worth it. At a time of plummeting fertility rates , films like this both reflect the reasons for a decline in child-rearing—and challenge us to reverse course, embracing children as a miraculous gift. Now in theaters or available to stream at home . Rated R.

8. The Killing of Two Lovers

As its title suggests, this is a pretty intense film. Decidedly arthouse and unusual in every way, Robert Machoian’s indie film is nevertheless a powerful apologetic for marital fidelity and a father’s leadership in the home. Even if it’s weird, stick with it for its brief duration (85 minutes). Clayne Crawford plays David, a man fighting to hold his family together after his marriage starts to fall apart. Though the film starts bleak, it progressively gets more hopeful (in fits and starts)—displaying both the dangers of trifling with a sacred covenant, and the valor of fighting to restore it. Watch on Hulu . Rated R.

On one hand, Sian Heder’s CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) is a standard coming of age story. High school senior Ruby (Emilia Jones) faces the tension of staying to help her family’s fishing business, or going off to college to make her own way. The twist here is that Ruby’s parents and older brother are deaf—and Ruby has always been the family’s translator to the wider world. If Ruby, who is a talented singer, leaves for college, how will they fare without her? The film is a tender celebration of the resilience of a family unit and the beauty of mutually sacrificial, self-giving love. Watch on AppleTV+. Rated PG-13.

10. The Courier

Benedict Cumberbatch had a good year. He earned accolades for The Power of the Dog (a film I didn’t love) and played a big role in the year’s biggest blockbuster , Spider-Man: No Way Home . But for my money, his performance in The Courier was the best. Dominic Cooke’s historical spy film tells the riveting true story of a businessman (Cumberbatch) recruited by British intelligence agencies to deliver messages from a Soviet secret agent. Among its many virtues, the film contains an all-too-rare depiction of sincere and lasting male friendship, and celebrates a bygone era when it wasn’t abnormal to sacrifice one’s personal interests for the sake of a larger community or cause. Watch on Amazon Prime Video . Rated PG-13 .

Ten Honorable Mentions

Drive My Car, Encanto, The Green Knight, Mass ( TGC review ), Licorice Pizza, The Most Reluctant Convert ( TGC review ), Our Friend ( TGC review ) , Spiderman: Far From Home, Swan Song , West Side Story.

Ten Excellent Documentaries

Here are 10 of my favorite documentaries or docuseries released in 2021 (listed in alphabetical order), along with where you can watch them.

The Alpinist

“One of the coolest feelings a human can experience is to feel so small in a world that’s so big.” This sentiment is expressed by solo climber Marc-André Leclerc, the eccentric subject of this fascinating documentary (which also features commentary by Alex Honnold of Free Solo fame). It’s a powerful look at the intoxicating transcendence of pushing the limits of our “so small” capacity in a “so big” world. Watch on Netflix . Rated PG-13 .

Final Account

Luke Holland’s Final Account is an important documentary about the final surviving participants in the Nazi regime. The film is based on over 300 interviews—compiled over 10 years—with German and Austrian men and women who had varying degrees of involvement in the machinery of Hitler’s Third Reich. As I wrote in my TGC review , the film displays the beauty of repentance, as well as the ugliness of refusal to take ownership for sin. Watch on Netflix . Rated PG-13 .

A Glitch in the Matrix

Are we living in a simulation? That’s the central question explored in Rodney Ascher’s mind-bending musing on games, reality, and virtual reality. At times philosophical, theological, and often just plain nerdy, the documentary is a thought-provoking addition to the growing discourse around the metaverse and the nature of reality in the digital age. Watch on Hulu . Not rated.

In and Of Itself

This documentary is essentially a filmed version of illusionist Derek Delgaudio’s stage show—which is a fascinating blend of magic, memoir, and a sort of spoken word poetry for the Age of Authenticity . However you describe it, the film is captivating from start to finish, as much for its “how’d he do that?” trickery as for its “who am I?” existentialism. Watch on Hulu . Rated TV-MA .

I’m a sucker for history documentaries, and this is a good one. Based in part on newly declassified or recently discovered documents, Sam Pollard’s film looks at J. Edgar Hoover’s surveillance campaign to discredit Martin Luther King Jr. as he rose in prominence during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. It’s a sobering and instructive film on a number of levels. Watch on Hulu . Rated TV-PG.

Painful to watch, but essential viewing, Robert Greene’s film follows six men as they together process the trauma of being abused by Catholic priests as boys. Utlizing drama therapy, the men reconstruct harrowing memories from their #churchtoo experiences that are interspersed through the film. The stories of church abuse survivors must continue to be told in films like this. And Christians must have ears to hear. Watch on Netflix . Rated R.

“Generosity is the beginning of everything.” That’s a line spoken by the widow of a hero who died in the 2018 cave rescue of a Thai soccer team. It’s a sentiment that captures the overall feel of this stirring, feel-good film—an account not only of a massive and impressive logistical operation, but a testimony to the beauty of volunteerism, cooperation, and heroic sacrifice. Watch on Disney+ . Rated TV-14.

Send Proof

My expectations are admittedly low for faith-based films/documentaries. Too often they are unsubtle and agenda-driven, rather than truly curious about exploration. Send Proof was a surprise ( read my TGC review ). The film—directed and narrated by Elijah Stephens—is a balanced look at various perspectives on Christianity’s supernatural claims, particularly the present-day occurrence of miracles. Available to purchase and stream .

Summer of Soul

The directorial debut of musician Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, Summer of Soul is a concert film of the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival—assembled from “found footage” that spent the last 50 years in a basement. Beautiful on its own terms as a record of a moment in cultural time, the film also raises questions about how our understanding of history is shaped by what gets recorded, what gets lost, and by whom. Watch on Hulu . Rated PG-13.

The Truffle Hunters

If you watch one film about truffle-hunting animals this year, let it be Pig (see #6 on my list above). But if you watch two (and I hope you do), make time for The Truffle Hunters . Captivating, joyful, and beautifully shot, this documentary follows a handful of aging Italian men who forage for white Alba truffles in Piedmont forests, with their beloved dogs. Available to rent . Rated PG-13 .

Is the digital age making us foolish?

It doesn’t have to be this way. With intentionality and the discipline to cultivate healthier media consumption habits, we can resist the foolishness of the age and instead become wise and spiritually mature. Brett McCracken’s The Wisdom Pyramid: Feeding Your Soul in a Post-Truth World shows us the way.

To start cultivating a diet more conducive to wisdom, click below to access a FREE ebook of The Wisdom Pyramid .

Brett McCracken is a senior editor and director of communications at The Gospel Coalition. He is the author of The Wisdom Pyramid: Feeding Your Soul in a Post-Truth World , Uncomfortable: The Awkward and Essential Challenge of Christian Community , Gray Matters: Navigating the Space Between Legalism and Liberty , and Hipster Christianity: When Church and Cool Collide . Brett and his wife, Kira, live in Santa Ana, California, with their three children. They belong to Southlands Church , and Brett serves as an elder. You can follow him on Twitter .

Now Trending

1 preaching christ in a postmodern world, 2 help my child’s spouse turned him against me., 3 the 11 beliefs you should know about jehovah’s witnesses when they knock at the door, 4 quick guide to christian denominations, 5 cling to the light: how to cope when suffering with depression.

Transgender Meds for Kids? 4 Findings from New Report

What a groundbreaking report means for common claims about caring for trans-identifying youth.

Why Gentile Inclusion Doesn’t Affirm Same-Sex Marriage

The FAQs: Southern Baptists Debate Designation of Women in Ministry

The Omnipotence, Omniscience, and Omnipresence of God

Does 1 Peter 3:19 Teach That Jesus Preached in Hell?

The FAQs: Thinking Biblically About Neurodivergence

What Does It Mean to Worship God in Spirit and Truth?

Latest Episodes

David brooks explores the amazing power of truly seeing others.

Welcome and Witness: How to Reach Out in a Secular Age

How to Build Gospel Culture: A Q&A Conversation

Examining the Current and Future State of the Global Church

Trevin Wax on Reconstructing Faith

Gaming Alone: Helping the Generation of Young Men Captivated and Isolated by Video Games

Do You See Her? How to Care for the Women in Your Church

Faith & Work: How Do I Glorify God Even When My Work Seems Meaningless?

Let’s Talk (Live): Growing in Gratitude

Getting Rid of Your Fear of the Book of Revelation

Looking for Love in All the Wrong Places: A Sermon from Julius Kim

Artwork for the Acts 29 Churches Planting Churches Podcast

Introducing The Acts 29 Podcast

Christian Movie Interviews, News and Reviews

BROWSE TOPICS X
Devotionals
Newsletters

The 15 Best Faith-Based Movies of 2020

Michael Foust CrosswalkHeadlines Contributor
Updated Dec 21, 2020

I asked a friend the other day what his favorite faith-based films were in 2020. His response – “did we have any?” – is perfectly understandable, and likely common, too.

After all, if theaters have been closed for much of the year, and if studios are saving their best content for 2021, then what was there to watch?

But if you do a little digging, you can find quite a few movie gems that didn’t get front-page attention but still were entertaining, inspiring and worth a watch.

In fact, we found more than a dozen. Some of these are more faith-centric than faith-based, but all of them have solid Christian elements. As always, give VidAngel or ClearPlay a try if something in a specific film troubles your senses.

Here are the 15 best faith-based movies of 2020:

Photo courtesy: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/Roman Valiev

1. I Still Believe (PG)

A young couple faces tragedy when the wife develops an aggressive form of cancer shortly after their wedding. The film was based on the real-life romance between Christian singer Jeremy Camp and his first wife, Melissa. It was directed by the Erwin Brothers and is every bit as good as their hit I Can Only Imagine . K.J. Apa and Britt Robertson star in the lead roles. It was nominated for two People’s Choice Awards. Read our review.

Rent or Buy I Still Believe on Amazon Video

Photo courtesy: ©Lionsgate

2. Selfie Dad (PG)

A young father, Ben, deals with a midlife crisis by recording comedic self-help videos. He obtains instant fame when they go viral, yet he’s left wondering: Why am I still not happy? It’s the rare faith -based film that’s not only entertaining but also hilarious. Selfie Dad stars comedian Michael Jr. as Ben and comedian Chondra Pierce as his boss. Read our review .

Rent or Buy Selfie Dad on Amazon Video

Photo courtesy: ©Kappa Studios

3. Free Burma Rangers (unrated)

It’s a documentary about real-life missionaries David and Karen Eubank, who junked the comforts of the western world to form a humanitarian organization that assists innocent victims in war-torn countries. It’s perhaps the most intense faith-based documentary ever made, with heart-pounding footage from the jungles of Burma and the streets of Mosul, Iraq. Read our review .

Rent or Buy Free Burma Rangers on Amazon Video

Photo courtesy: ©Fathom

The Wise Men movie, 'The Grinch' director makes a movie about the three wise men

4. The Three Wise Men (unrated)

It’s a broadcast-worthy animated film about the three wise men and their journey to see the Christ child. It was made by a Christian couple with major Hollywood experience: Carrie Cheney ( The Powerpuff Girls Movie ) and Yarrow Cheney, the director of The Grinch and The Secret Life of Pets . Andy Griffith provides the narration. Although originally released on DVD in 2006, it was released for the first time on digital video this year, with new music. Read our story .

Rent or Buy The Three Wise Men on Amazon Video

Photo courtesy: ©Aspiration Entertainment

A still from Disneys Cloud, 4 things to know about Disneys Cloud

5. Clouds (PG-13)

A teenage boy with terminal cancer spends the final months of his life writing inspirational songs about life. One of them – Clouds – becomes a worldwide hit. This Disney film is based on the real-life story of Zach Sobiech, a Minnesota boy whose Catholic mother prayed that God would use his witness for good: “I want someone’s life to be changed forever,” she asked God. That’s exactly what happened. Read our review .

Photo courtesy: ©Disney

6. The Last Champion (PG-13)

An ex-Olympic wrestler who was stripped of his gold medal during a drug scandal must face his past when his mother dies, forcing him to return to the hometown that never forgave him. Cole Hauser (Yellowstone) stars in the lead role. It’s an uplifting movie about tragedy, second chances, and learning to live in the present and the future – not the past. Read our review .

Rent or Buy The Last Champion on Amazon Video

Photo courtesy: ©House Media

7. Farmer and the Belle (PG)

An aging fashion model discovers the true, biblical meaning of beauty when she travels back to her hometown and encounters old friends, including the man who once was her best friend. It’s an inspiring faith -based romantic comedy that every Christian girl should watch. It’s based on a true story and stars Jenn Gotzon ( Frost/Nixon, My Daddy’s in Heaven ) and Jim E. Chandler ( Lodge 49, Inheritance ) in the lead roles. Read our review .

Rent or Buy Farmer and the Belle on Amazon Video

Photo courtesy: ©Mill Creek

8. Against the Tide (unrated)

Oxford mathematician and defender-of-the-faith John Lennox offers his best arguments for the existence of God and the historicity of Christianity in plain language anyone can understand. It is hosted by actor and director Kevin Sorbo. The two men travel through the streets of London and the countryside of Israel as they examine the truth. It’s one of the best apologetic documentaries ever made. Read our review .

Photo courtesy: ©Pensmore Films

9. Small Group the Movie (PG-13)

A director moves his family to the South in order to make a documentary about evangelicals with the assumption he’ll uncover hypocrisy and hatred. (“Evangelicals are on the ropes,” his boss tells him.) Instead, the director discovers a compassionate group of people who are doing their best to live out Jesus ’ commands. It’s a hilarious movie with plenty of life lessons for today’s church. Read our review .

Rent or Buy Small Group the Movie on Amazon Video

Photo courtesy: ©Limesoda films

10. Switched (unrated)

Cassandra, an insecure and often-bullied high school student, prays that God will show her nemesis – the ever-popular and mega-bully Katie Sharp – what it’s like to live a day in her shoes. The next morning, the two girls wake up having switched bodies. It’s a hysterical movie with powerful messages for tweens and teens about bullying, beauty, and compassion. Read our review .

Rent or Buy Switched on Amazon Video

Photo courtesy: ©Vertical Entertainment

11. Red Sea Miracle I and II (unrated)

Filmmaker and historian Tim‌ ‌Mahoney examines the archaeological evidence for two major biblical events: the Israelites’ crossing of the desert and the Red Sea. Mahoney travels to the biblical sites and interviews scholars from various camps, yet he regularly circles back to the biblical text. It’s a two-part must-watch for Christians who want to strengthen their faith . Read our reviews here and here .

Photo courtesy: ©Thinking Man Films

12. Dude Perfect: Backstage Pass (unrated)

Billy Graham may be the most influential Christian in the history of the U.S., but among today’s YouTube-crazed children, the Dude Perfect quintet seems to be filling that role. (They have 54 million YouTube subscribers.) The film follows the trick shot group on their 2019 “Pound It Noggin” tour but also details their history and how they got started. In the final moments, they discuss their Christian faith. Read our review .

Photo courtesy: ©Dude Perfect

13. Jump Shot (unrated)

It’s a gripping sports documentary about an unsung, overlooked name in basketball history: Kenny Sailors, the creator of the jump shot. In the 1940s, Sailors led upstart Wyoming to a national title and then became one of the NBA’s top-scoring guards before becoming an integral promoter of high school girls’ basketball in Alaska. He also was a Christian. (“As I’ve gotten older, the Lord has shown me that there are ... things more important than just sports or basketball,” he says.) Steph Curry was an executive producer. Read our review .

Rent or Buy Jump Shot on Amazon Video

Photo courtesy: ©Unanimous Media

14. I Am Patrick (unrated)

The namesake for St. Patrick ’s Day didn’t rid Ireland of snakes and he wasn’t even – can you believe it? – Irish. But as this documentary makes clear, Patrick was a Christian man whose mission work should be a symbol of inspiration to today’s Christians. He escaped slavery in Ireland but then felt called to go back to spread the gospel among a pagan people. The film is part-docudrama and stars John Rhys-Davies ( Lord of the Rings series) as Patrick. Read our review .

15. Divided Hearts of America (unrated)

Former NFL star Benjamin Watson interviews more than 30 experts and politicians on both sides of the abortion divide to uncover the facts about America’s most-debated issue. The documentary raises tough questions for pro-choicers and pro-lifers alike. Watson, who is pro-life, demonstrates how to discuss the issue. He never shouts. He never gets angry. But he always speaks the truth with love. Read our review .

12 Best Christian Movies of 2019

Photo courtesy: ©Salem Now

Michael Foust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His stories have appeared in Baptist Press , Christianity Today , The Christian Post , the Leaf-Chronicle , the Toronto Star and the Knoxville News-Sentinel.

4 Things to Know about <em>The Last Champion</em>, the Inspiring Family Film about Second Chances

Editor's Picks

11 Reasons Not to Blame Parents for Prodigal Children

Popular Today

7 Prophetic Words God Has for Us about the End Times

Privacy Policy
Terms of Use
Crosswalk App
California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information
California - CCPA Notice

Movie Reviews

Tv/streaming, collections, great movies, chaz's journal, contributors, a week away.

Now streaming on:

The teen musical "A Week Away," about a juvenile delinquent who finds faith, friendship, and love during a one-week stint at a Christian youth camp, is Netflix's bid to grab a piece of the so-called "Christian film market," one of the few genres of feature to have experienced growth in the last couple of decades. That "so-called" in the preceding sentence isn't a swipe at the sincerity of anyone's religious beliefs—I'm sure that everyone involved with this project is either devout or respectful of those who are—but a debate prompt, aimed at anybody who cares about faith, cinema, or both.

The story begins with orphaned teen Will Hawkins (Kevin Quinn, who looks like he could be Zac Efron's nephew) fleeing a police officer on foot, guitar in hand. We later learn that he's a delinquent minor with a long rap sheet that includes such funny-rebellious offenses as stealing a cop car and putting his high school up for sale on Craigslist. (There were offers.) Will is given a one-week stint at a Christian youth summer camp in lieu of criminal charges, which is how you know that the hypothetical audience for this movie is middle-class, suburban, and white. Will was arrested without bodily harm, but a Black kid from anywhere in the United States who stole a cop car likely wouldn't be, and it's hard to imagine that The System would go out of its way to find reasons not to prosecute him. The film tries to inoculate itself against charges of racial cluelessness by placing Will in the care of a Black foster mother (Sherri Shepherd's Kristin) who works at the aforementioned camp and has an earnest, nerdy teenaged son named George ( Jahbril Cook ).

Will bunks with George at Camp Aweegaway (a week away, get it?), and each falls for a delightful girl and woos her when they aren't trying to win assorted competitions. Will is smitten with Avery ( Bailee Madison ), the adorable daughter of the camp's director ( David Koechner , the perfect actor for a role like this; he looks like half the beer-bellied, motivational cliche-shouting high school gym coaches in America). George makes a play for Avery's cute but socially awkward pal ( Kat Conner Sterling ), and slowly overcomes his poor-self image with the support of the much cooler Will. There's a fun, short fantasy musical number, reminiscent of a Super Bowl halftime show or a grand finale musical number on "American Idol," set right after Will does a "makeover" on him, and a few other moderately engaging numbers set on arrival day, in the camp's cafeteria, and in and around the swimming hole. There's almost nothing in the way of dramatic stakes, though, save for a very brief third-act interlude where Will faces the consequences of lying to Avery about his criminal past. This, of course, is a false sort of "conflict" because we know Avery would never cut the handsome, considerate, sensitive Will loose over such a minor transgression. The "villain" in the movie, a lanky redhead played by Iain Tucker , isn't all that threatening or menacing. His main sins are competitive pride, jealousy, and an overweening smugness.

As written by Alan Powell and Kali Bailey (with a story by Powell, Bailey, and Gabriel Vasquez), and directed by veteran music video director Roman White (who has multiple credits with Carrie Underwood , Kelly Clarkson , and Taylor Swift ), "A Week Away" feels like an evangelical Christianity-infused Disney Channel movie, if that's not a redundant phrase: there's always been a fair bit of crossover between the cable outlet's cute but bland teen (actually preteen-targeted) sitcoms and musicals, and the American "if it's not rated G, it's not Christian" entertainment marketplace. The film excels at fast-paced verbal comedy, expertly channeling that post-1970s screwball comedy thing where the actors talk around and over each other while delivering exposition, even carrying on sardonic side discussions while another character is engrossed in their monologue. Powell and Bailey squeeze in a few self-mocking or nearly satirical exchanges that poke fun at evangelical Christian youth organization cliches, like how teens who've been on missions lord that over teens who haven't.

In comparison, the musical numbers are merely adequate. Like all but a handful of the numbers in Disney Channel musicals and broadcast network series like "Glee" and "Smash," they have no discernible personality. It's more tedious "coverage" filmmaking: shooting everything with multiple cameras, some of them moving dynamically, and cutting between the various angles with occasional speed-shifts until the performance is done.

This isn't an unwatchable movie, just an underachieving and forgettable one, and somehow that's more irritating than a disastrous swing for the fences would've been. Innocuous and nearly conflict-free films like this are not, in fact, more Christian than a theology and/or morality-infused feature like " The Tree of Life ," " A Hidden Life ," " The Last Temptation of Christ ," " The Passion of the Christ ," " Bad Lieutenant ," " Silence ," "Resurrection," " Diary of a Country Priest ," " Jungle Fever " or " The Apostle ," to name but a few landmarks; they're just more slick, orderly, and safe. They're long ads reassuring people that the product they already own is perfect in every way.

Judging from the obedient, well-adjusted, sexually neutered, almost rebellion-free teens in "A Week Away," the brand loyalists are musical theater-loving middle schoolers from devout households who can sing every number in " Godspell " and " Jesus Christ Superstar " and maybe "High School Musical" or "Camp Rock" from memory, but haven't been allowed to watch " Cabaret " or "The Book of Mormon" or even "Oklahoma!" yet because their parents are worried it would spark discussions they don't want to have. (Oddly, Netflix has already proved that it can produce smart, quirky, real world-adjacent teen pix with bite, like " The Half of It " and " Moxie .") That the screenplay keeps name-checking the teen dramas of John Hughes only highlights the comparative lack of nerve on display here.

The movie's lack of ambition is a shame, because the youth drama and/or musical and/or romantic comedy is fertile ground for faith-centered narratives that treat struggles over faith, doubt, suffering, unfairness, and willingness to trust authority with the seriousness they deserve. Imagine a Christian youth version of a movie like "The Young Girls of Rochefort" or " La Bamba " or " 8 Mile " or "Purple Rain" (which is pretty close to being a Christian youth movie anyway, though not one pastors would show in Sunday school). Or, for that matter, a Christian youth musical modeled on a movie with art in its eyes and poetry in its soul, like " Rebel Without a Cause ," " The Outsiders ," or " The Spectacular Now ." Do we need divine intervention to make this happen? Keep cinema in your prayers tonight.

On Netflix today.

Matt Zoller Seitz

Matt Zoller Seitz is the Editor at Large of RogerEbert.com, TV critic for New York Magazine and Vulture.com, and a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in criticism.

Now playing

Sweet Dreams

Simon Abrams

Evil Does Not Exist

Glenn kenny.

Monica Castillo

Christy Lemire

Film Credits

A Week Away (2021)

Bailee Madison as Avery

Kevin G. Quinn as Will Hawkins

Sherri Shepherd

David Koechner

Jahbril Cook

Kat Conner Sterling

Iain Tucker

Roman White

Writer (story by)

Alan Powell
Gabe Vasquez
Kali Bailey

Cinematographer

Parker Adams

Latest blog posts

Prime Video's Outer Range Opens Up in a Hole New Way in Season 2

The Ebert Fellows Go to Ebertfest 2024

Cannes 2024 Video #2: The Festival Takes Off

Two More Weeks in the Midday Sun

an image, when javascript is unavailable

‘The Jesus Music’ Review: Skimming 50 Years, a Christian Music Doc Chooses Its Controversies Carefully

By Chris Willman

Chris Willman

Senior Music Writer and Chief Music Critic

ACM Awards Producers on What to Expect From Post Malone’s First TV Splash as a Country Artist and the Show’s Superstar Collaborations 5 hours ago
Reba McEntire Says ‘Let It Rip!’ to Hosting the ACM Awards, New Music With Dave Cobb and Her ‘Happy’s Place’ Sitcom 1 day ago
‘Becoming Led Zeppelin’ Doc Acquired for Theatrical Release by Sony Classics, With Footage Added Since Festival Premiere 1 day ago

Amy Grant in The Jesus Music. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate

That’s not to say that the doc doesn’t have some genuinely affecting moments as the stars of the genre recount some of their darker hours in the movie’s mid-section. It has to, when Grant is talking about how her divorce led to a near-career downfall as much of her evangelical audience rejected her, or Franklin and next-generation gospel star Lecrae discuss the racial prejudices of CCM’s primarily white audience, or ’80s star Russ Taff gets candid about alcoholism, or DC Talk’s survivors open up about not having left their egos at the door before their 2000 breakup.

Suffice it to say that anything truly divisive won’t come up for mention in a movie that has the Capitol Christian Music Group as a production partner — most especially not the LGBTQ issues that deeply divide people in the industry, nor anyone who ever left the genre and its vision of the faith behind, like famous reprobate Leslie/Sam Phillips. It’s a “warts and all” portrait of the industry that presents a few carefully chosen blemishes before getting back to selling us the joyful noise.

First, there’s the Jesus movement of the very early ’70s, when preachers like Lonnie Frisbee and rockers like Larry Norman wanted to look like as well as extol Christ, and when Costa Mesa’s Calvary Chapel became an unlikely musical epicenter. The film declares that that whole scene culminated at the Explo ’72 Texas rock ‘n’ roll revival meeting, then abruptly jumps forward to the mid-1980s, when Amy Grant and the hair-metal band Stryper were crossing over to VH1, MTV and the pop-rock mainstream. Finally, it’s yet another quantum leap to the 2000s, when the genre’s practitioners are all but abandoning secular crossover in favor of pure worship music — a trend the film maintains was kicked off by Michael W. Smith releasing his “Worship” album on Sept. 11, 2001. (Was that date a coincidence? Smith thinks not.)

Is the industry’s large-scale move over the last two decades toward Hillsong-style worship music — i.e., prayerful songs directed at God, not conversational music from human to human — a confirmation that Christian musicians had finally refound their footing after chasing pop trends for too long? Or was it a tacit admission of defeat in the decades-long attempt to convince the outside world that CCM was as interesting and worthy as any other genre? That, like a lot of other questions, doesn’t seem to have occurred to the makers of “The Jesus Music,” or, if it did, it wasn’t politically expedient to bring a source of actual ambiguity up.

In the meantime, if you’re a longtime follower of Christian music, there’s an enjoyable “old home week” aspect to some of the veterans who show up, in case you were wondering what, say, Chuck Girard of the seminal early ’70s soft-rock band Love Song or the Resurrection Band’s Glenn Kaiser look like now. Grant, in particular, comes off as the reassuring, patient model of how to mature in an industry that doesn’t always reward that.

But before long, past or present devotees will notice who’s left out: not even a mention for Mark Heard, probably the greatest songwriter the genre produced, or Randy Stonehill, and only a fleeting glimpse of an oddball star like Carman (whose weirdness does at least merit a post-credits stinger). World-class singer-guitarist Phil Keaggy was interviewed but only shows up for a guitar lick and a giggle. Never mentioned is the wave of refugees from secular rock who tried reverse crossover, from B.J. Thomas to more marginal figures like secondary members of Santana, America and Wings.

But the business of contemporary Christian music gets even less attention than the music. Toward the end, worship music’s proponents brag that the movement toward modern hymnody came about through a wave of the Holy Spirit, not through publishers or labels … and at this point, almost two hours in, you might wonder: What’s a record label?

The film’s lack of actual tunes lasting more than a few seconds will leave outsiders to the genre suspicious whether any of this music was ever any good. Some of it was, but “The Jesus Music” is so deeply devoted to skimping on syncs, you’d almost think the filmmakers were trying to hide the genre’s musical light under a bushel instead of just favoring fair-use economics.

Reviewed online, Oct. 3. 2021. Running time: 109 MIN.

Production: (Documentary) A Lionsgate release and presentation of a Kingdom Story Company production. Producers: Brandon Gregory, Joshua Walsh. Executive producers: Michael W. Smith. Amy Grant, Andrew Erwin, Jon Erwin, Kevin Downes, Tony Young, Bill Reeves, Greg Ham, Jeff Verdoorn.
Crew: Directors: The Erwin Brothers (Andrew Erwin, Jon Erwin). Camera: Kristopher S. Kimlin. Editor: John Puckett. Music supervisor: Jess Chambers.
With: Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Toby Mac, Kirk Franklin, Greg Laurie, Lauren Daigle, Glenn Kaiser, Chris Tomlin, Michael Tait, Kevin Max, Lecrae, Bill Gaither.

More From Our Brands

Omar apollo announces sophomore album, ‘god said no’, hollywood producer ryan murphy puts sleekly redone neutra house on the market for $34 million, under armour plans revamp after dour earnings report, the best loofahs and body scrubbers, according to dermatologists, outer range season 2 premiere recap: a ‘hole’ new timeline emerges — so, where’d perry end up, verify it's you, please log in.

Common Sense Media

Movie & TV reviews for parents

For Parents
For Educators
Our Work and Impact

Or browse by category:

Get the app
Movie Reviews
Best Movie Lists
Best Movies on Netflix, Disney+, and More

Common Sense Selections for Movies

50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12

Best TV Lists
Best TV Shows on Netflix, Disney+, and More
Common Sense Selections for TV
Video Reviews of TV Shows

Best Kids' Shows on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix

Book Reviews
Best Book Lists
Common Sense Selections for Books

8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books

50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12

Game Reviews
Best Game Lists

Common Sense Selections for Games

Video Reviews of Games

Nintendo Switch Games for Family Fun

Podcast Reviews
Best Podcast Lists

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

App Reviews
Best App Lists

Social Networking for Teens

Gun-Free Action Game Apps

Reviews for AI Apps and Tools

YouTube Channel Reviews
YouTube Kids Channels by Topic

Parents' Ultimate Guide to YouTube Kids

Explaining the News to Our Kids

Family Tech Planners
Digital Skills
All Articles
Latino Culture
Black Voices
Asian Stories
Native Narratives
LGBTQ+ Pride
Best of Diverse Representation List

Celebrating Black History Month

Movies and TV Shows with Arab Leads

Celebrate Hip-Hop's 50th Anniversary

Common sense media reviewers.

Faith-based drama has battle, crucifixion violence.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Open your heart and mind to accept the seemingly i

Clavius is an intelligent skeptic who's initia

Many scenes with combat and punishment, including

Subtle innuendo.

Scenes show people drinking wine and occasionally

Positive Messages

Open your heart and mind to accept the seemingly impossible, and they may be possible after all.

Positive Role Models

Clavius is an intelligent skeptic who's initially unable to make sense of what he's seen because it seems impossible. But eventually, he accepts what his eyes tell him and in the process realizes he must reevaluate many of his fundamental beliefs.

Violence & Scariness

Many scenes with combat and punishment, including people slashing each other with swords and spears and bashing heads with rocks and clubs (though overall things don't get that bloody/gory). Several sequences include detailed discussions and demonstrations of precisely what's involved in crucifying a person -- and the resulting slow, gruesome death.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Scenes show people drinking wine and occasionally acting drunk.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Risen is a Biblical drama set during the days before and after the death of Jesus Christ; it focuses on Clavius (Joseph Fiennes), a Roman soldier who tries to make sense of seemingly impossible events. While there's no swearing and only a little bit of subtle innuendo, there's lots of graphic violence, in both battle scenes (slashing with swords and spears, bashing heads with rocks and clubs) and crucifixion sequences (detailed discussion and demonstration of precisely what's involved), though relatively little blood overall. Some characters also get drunk on wine. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

Where to Watch

Videos and photos.

Community Reviews

Parents say (8)
Kids say (11)

Based on 8 parent reviews

This movie is for teenages to adults but you can watch it with younger kids

Great movie, what's the story.

Clavius ( Joseph Fiennes ), a high-ranking Roman soldier, is given an usual assignment: Protect the tomb of Jewish prophet Yeshua ( Cliff Curtis ) -- said to be the son of God -- who has just been crucified, and make sure his followers don't steal the corpse. But the next morning, the tomb is open, the guards are missing, and so is the body, leaving Clavius to track down the disciples and find out what happened. When he finally locates Yeshua, Clavius is rocked to the core to find him alive and well, prompting the Roman to reevaluate his beliefs.

Is It Any Good?

Fine acting by stars Fiennes and Tom Felton (as Lucius) elevates RISEN somewhat, even if it's hampered by a straightforward script that doesn't leave much room for lyricism or depth. A Biblical tale this epic arguably has endless potential for artistry, but instead, Risen feels more like a lesson than a work of art, and one that's pretty thin at that.

It's fascinating to start the story after Jesus is crucified and disappears from the tomb -- since we've seen the lead-up in many other films -- as well as to have it unfurl with the fictional Clavius at its center. But ultimately the story feels underdeveloped and peters out in the end when it should crescendo. It's a disappointing finish to a film that starts with much promise.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about Risen 's violence . What role does it play in the story? Do you think all of it is necessary to tell the story effectively? Did the different types (battles vs. crucifixion) have different impacts on you? Why do you think that is?

How does Risen compare to other faith-based movies about the life of Jesus Christ?

Talk about Clavius' choices. Why does he abandon his position as a high-ranking Roman soldier? What does he see that makes him question his beliefs?

Movie Details

In theaters : February 19, 2016
On DVD or streaming : May 24, 2016
Cast : Joseph Fiennes , Tom Felton , Cliff Curtis
Director : Kevin Reynolds
Inclusion Information : Polynesian/Pacific Islander actors
Studio : Sony Pictures Entertainment
Genre : Drama
Topics : History
Run time : 107 minutes
MPAA rating : PG-13
MPAA explanation : Biblical violence including some disturbing images
Last updated : May 8, 2024

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

Our editors recommend.

The Last Temptation of Christ

Want personalized picks for your kids' age and interests?

The Passion of the Christ

The Miracle Maker: The Story of Jesus

Best biblical movies, drama movies that tug at the heartstrings, related topics.

Want suggestions based on your streaming services? Get personalized recommendations

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

Notice: All forms on this website are temporarily down for maintenance. You will not be able to complete a form to request information or a resource. We apologize for any inconvenience and will reactivate the forms as soon as possible.

Blog: Movies

Top Christian Movies Streaming Now

June 1, 2022

We’ve talked about the promise and peril of the big streaming services . We’ve let you know about some Christian (or at least family-friendly) streaming alternatives to consider if you’re ready to part company with Netflix or Disney+.

But what if you want to watch some good Christian movies, but have a yen to watch Stranger Things 4 , too? What if you’re not ready to say farewell to Prime or Hulu, but you’d still love to watch a recent faith-based flick?

Believe it or not, some streaming services do have Christian cinematic options for you. They might not make a splash on your home screen. And a few might be on second-tier streaming platforms. But they’re out there. And we’d like to give you a few suggestions on what—and where—you might watch. Here are some great Christian family movies streaming right now.

Blue Miracle (Netflix, 2021):

Last year, Netflix did more than introduce the uber-bloody Korean drama Squid Game. It made a pitch to faith-based viewers, too, releasing a handful of movies specifically geared toward Christian audiences. Blue Miracle —the story of a clutch of scrappy orphans and a crusty old fisherman (Dennis Quaid) competing in the most prestigious fishing tournament in the world—was one such story. And one of the best Christian Netflix movies, we think. It’s not particularly preachy, but its heart is strong. Omar (played by Jimmy Gonzales) tells his charges that it’s important to be a good, principled person, no matter the circumstances. And those principles are powered by Omar’s own Christian faith. He finds those values tested during the film, but he perseveres. And through that journey together, he and the orphans see, indeed, a miracle.

The Jesus Music (Hulu, 2021):

Like Blue Miracle, The Jesus Music made our “ Best Christian Movies ” list during the Plugged In Movie Awards earlier this year. This documentary takes us through the history of contemporary Christian music. That journey starts in the late 1960s and early ‘70s, then moves into our more worship-themed age today. While it’s not a comprehensive look at CCM, it reminds us that making a joyful noise unto the Lord can be a beautiful thing. That’s true even if the artists involved don’t always perfectly mirror the righteousness and grace of God. And The Jesus Music is one of the few Christian movies on Hulu.

The Pilgrim’s Progress (Prime Video, Tubi, 2019):

Looking for a Christian movie that’s also based on an all-time classic bit of literature? Look no further. The Pilgrim’s Progress delivers a faithful animated rendition of John Bunyan’s classic allegory first written in (are you sitting down?) 1678 . When we nominated it for a Plugged In Movie Award back in 2020, it’s availability was extremely limited. But now, you can find this well-made, engaging production on a couple of streaming services. No need to struggle through the Slough of Despond to find one of the best Christian movies on Amazon Prime and Tubi.

Selfie Dad (Peacock, 2020):

Ben Marcus wasn’t happy at work, at home, anywhere. He was lost. And then he found … a streaming video platform where he becomes a slam-dunk star. No, that’s not the sort of glowing moral one would normally see in a Christian movie. But here’s the thing: The movie goes on from there. Without ever taking itself too seriously (it is a comedy , after all), Selfie Dad reminds us that when we’re lost, we need to find (or rediscover) Scripture. The movie’s tagline is “Read the Bible. Change your life.” And it shows us, with a smile and a giggle, how true that is.

Soul Surfer (Netflix, 2011):

This movie demonstrated to mainstream Hollywood that inspiring true stories with Christian content can attract a big audience. Soul Surfer , which dramatizes the story of teen Bethany Hamilton (who had her arm bitten off by a shark), illustrates the power of faith and family in unimaginably difficult circumstances. Starring Dennis Quaid (again), Oscar-winner Helen Hunt and AnnaSophia Robb as Bethany, Soul Surfer is a strong, sweet and incredibly inspirational story.

Oh, and while you’re hanging around Netflix, you might want to check out the documentary based on Bethany Hamilton’s life, too. It’s called Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable , and it takes us on the celebrity surfer’s more recent adventures in addition to chronicling her past ones.

Show Me the Father (Roku, Sling, Starz, 2021):

Another documentary, Show Me the Father also shows us how important fatherhood is. The first documentary from Christian movie empresarios the Kendrick Brothers, the film features loads of familiar faces and voices, including Focus on the Family’s own Jim Daly. His own lack of a father growing up reminds us how integral dads are.

Unplanned (Tubi, Vudu, 2019):

You’ll rarely see an R-rated film on a Plugged In list of “Best Christian Movies,” but that’s what happened in 2020, when this abortion-centric drama snagged a nomination during our Plugged In Movie Awards. Though difficult to watch, Unplanned offers both a strong Christian and pro-life message, along with some pretty strong performances. This is not a movie for the whole family (or the faint of heart), but few films can beat this one in embracing the beginnings of family—even unexpected ones.

The Young Messiah (Netflix, 2016):

The Bible tells us a lot about Jesus. But it doesn’t tell us everything. Between Jesus’ birth and around the time He turned 12, the Scriptures go silent. The Young Messiah , a PG-13 film, fills that gap with this imaginative extra-biblical account. It might not reflect history, but offers some insight all the same. Yes, it’s based on Anne Rice’s 2005 of the same name. And the Interview With a Vampire author has had, shall we say, a complex history with Christianity. But this sincere rumination is surprisingly impactful—as long as you don’t take it as the Gospel truth.

A Week Away (Netflix, 2021):

We end this list as we began it—with a Netflix original. But it’s very different, too. This musical (!) romcom takes us to a church camp where boy-meets-girl, boy-sings-to-girl, boy-dances-with-girl-until-both-fall-in-love. But that love is rooted in a love of God, and that’s important here. And for those who love classic CCM songs from the 1990s and early 2000s, A Week Away holds a lot of attraction.

Paul Asay has been part of the Plugged In staff since 2007, watching and reviewing roughly 15 quintillion movies and television shows. He’s written for a number of other publications, too, including Time, The Washington Post and Christianity Today. The author of several books, Paul loves to find spirituality in unexpected places, including popular entertainment, and he loves all things superhero. His vices include James Bond films, Mountain Dew and terrible B-grade movies. He’s married, has two children and a neurotic dog, runs marathons on occasion and hopes to someday own his own tuxedo. Feel free to follow him on Twitter @AsayPaul.

Weekly Reviews Straight to your Inbox!

Cast & crew
User reviews

God's Not Dead: We the People

Reverend Dave defending himself and a group of Christian homeschooling families after the inspection by the local government official. Reverend Dave defending himself and a group of Christian homeschooling families after the inspection by the local government official. Reverend Dave defending himself and a group of Christian homeschooling families after the inspection by the local government official.

Tommy Blaze
Chuck Konzelman
Cary Solomon
David A.R. White
William Forsythe
Isaiah Washington
74 User reviews
6 Critic reviews

Reverend Dave Hill

Robert Benson

Congressman Daryl Smith

Mike McKinnon

Judge Neely

Taylor Hays

Rebecca McKinnon

Brandon McKinnon

Ayisha Moradi
Gallery Member

US Congressperson

Restaurant Worker
Hospital Staff

Congressman Bill Davies

Congressional Aide
(as Paul A. Carroll)
All cast & crew
Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

More like this

Did you know

Trivia The capital scenes were shot at the Scottish Rite Temple in Guthrie, Ok
Goofs Arkansas does not have as strict homeschool laws as those portrayed in the movie. Parents must provide notice to the state each year about their intention to homeschool, but beyond that there are no mandated subjects, standardized testing requirements, or other state regulation, including unannounced visits.

Shannon McKinnon : Is Ms. short for Miss or Misses?

Rita Dowd : It's not short for anything, it's complete by itself.

Rebecca McKinnon : Oh she meant no disrespect, she's just asking if you're single or married so she might address you properly.

Rita Dowd : I identify as self partnered.

Connections Alternate-language version of God's Not Dead: A Light in Darkness (2018)
Soundtracks God is Good Performed by Francesca Battistelli Written by Francesca Battistelli , Jeff Pardo and Ben Glover

User reviews 74

passan-80670
Nov 23, 2021
How long is God's Not Dead: We the People? Powered by Alexa
November 11, 2021 (Brazil)
United States
Main Website for Pinnacle Peak Pictures' films
Gott ist nicht tot 4 - Wir sind das Volk
Guthrie, Oklahoma, USA (location)
Pinnacle Peak Pictures
Toy Gun Films
See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

Runtime 1 hour 32 minutes

More to explore

Dune: Part Two (Christian Movie Review)

Dune : Part Two is a triumphant, sweeping sci-fi spectacle; a visually impressive and thematically complicated story about the interplay between faith, religion, and power.

About the Film

Three years after Dune: Part One , audiences can finally be transported back to the spice-infused sands of Arrakis. As with the first entry, Dune: Part Two makes two facts clear: Dune is a difficult story to translate into film, and Denis Villeneuve is absolutely the right man for the job. Like a Fremen warrior riding a gigantic sandworm, Villeneuve somehow manages to harness the unwieldy story and turn it into something exciting and immersive. Dune: Part Two is a triumphant, sweeping sci-fi spectacle; a visually impressive and thematically complicated story about the interplay between faith, religion, and power. Although not without some elements for Christians to carefully consider, the film is sure to please audiences looking for exciting spectacle on an epic scale.

In many ways, author Frank Herbert attempted to subvert the classic storytelling tropes that others like George Lucas would later embrace. What if the “Chosen One” resisted the call, not because he thought himself unworthy but because he believed himself to be too powerful? What if the rebellion to overthrow the Empire led to a bloody holy war rather than lasting peace? What if the wise, mystical guardians and mentors were the least trustworthy? Or, what might be of most interest to Christian viewers, what if the coming of a prophesized “messiah” was a moment to dread rather than celebrate? Thus, like a double-sided Crysknife, the aspects of the story that make it unique and interesting can also make it less accessible.

Director Denis Villeneuve does a lot of heavy lifting in translating the complicated story into a crowd-pleasing cinematic event. The film looks superb. The scope and spectacle make it the epitome of a Hollywood blockbuster, a film that demands to be experienced on the biggest screen possible. During the climactic third act, which is filled with clashing armies, giant sandworms, and exploding nuclear warheads, I glanced around the theater to see several people literally sitting forward in their seat. I lost count of the number of epic slow-motion shots of Paul Atreides walking with his cape blowing in the wind as Hans Zimmer’s bombastic score plays in the background. Is it overkill? Maybe, but man…it’s just so cool. And I really need to buy myself a cape.

The quality craftsmanship is evident in other areas as well. For example, in an inspired creative decision, the home planet of House Harkonnen (the pale, bald rivals of House Atreides) is rendered in black and white, effectively giving it an otherworldly aura. The film clocks in with a nearly three-hour runtime. But despite occasionally feeling disjointed (particularly in the first act), it never drags. Also, despite limited screentime, the new villain Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen (played by Austin Butler) is magnetic, a worthy addition to a cast brimming with talent.

Despite the film’s successes, some difficulties from the novel carry over. One challenge is that the protagonist is increasingly unrelatable and almost inhuman. Paul Atreides is more of an idea than a person. Not every protagonist must be an “aw, shucks” farmer with a heart of gold, and Paul’s journey from human to a symbol is a central component of the story. But the film doesn’t always push beyond the conceptual to the personal. The audience views Paul’s struggles at a distance through the eyes of others rather than from Paul’s own perspective.

Likewise, Lady Jessica (played by the always great Rebecca Ferguson) is a constant presence who is mysteriously pulling strings and maneuvering, but (thanks to drinking some blue juice from a sandworm) she is so mystical and detached from regular human emotion that she almost transcends character depth. Paul wants revenge and Jessica (presumably) wants power. Pursuing those objectives becomes their sole motivation, and their story arcs lack the internal conflict that would make their journeys more compelling. As with the book, the story ends abruptly, paving the way for an inevitable Dune: Part Three .

Overall, I had similar feelings toward Dune: Part Two as I did to Herbert’s original novel. I was captivated by the immersive worldbuilding and concepts, but I was left a little cold by the characters. Despite these issues, this adaptation is as good as is feasible. Villeneuve infuses the narrative with incredible spectacle and thrilling action, while remaining true to the novel’s dense worldbuilding and philosophical ideas. As with the first film—and the source material—Christians will likely be divided regarding the religious themes and implications (see more below). But as entertainment, Dune: Part Two is a triumph. In an era of skepticism surrounding the long-term viability of the movie theater industry, this film is a testament to the power and potential of cinema.

For Consideration

Language: There are scattered profanities throughout, including “s—” and “h—.”

Violence: Several of the villains are ruthless and sadistic, including multiple instances in which they murder their subordinates by slashing their throats or pounding their heads against a table. In one scene, pained screams come from behind a door, and two dead bodies are later shown on the floor. The Freman drain the corpses of their enemies for their water (only one face is briefly shown drained and shriveled). There are several battle scenes in which countless armored, helmeted figures are shot or slashed in mostly bloodless action.

Sexuality: A man and woman lay together and kiss, presumably nude after sex, although they are shown only from the shoulders up. A woman seduces a man. The sexual encounter is not shown, but the woman becomes pregnant and refers to the man as being “sexually vulnerable.”

Other: Religion is prominently featured (see below). Members of the Bene Gesserit order are sometimes referred to as witches, although their powers are the result of genetics and a breeding program rather than of spiritual origin. Several religious rituals are depicted. There is mention of “demons” on the planet, although they are not shown or explained. Both the planet’s spice and mystical “Water of Life” grant heightened and transcendent abilities.

Engage The Film

Religion, faith, & power .

Even more so than the first film, Dune: Part Two is filled with enough talk of faith, prayer, and messiahs to make even today’s faith-based films blush. But the story is far from a cozy evangelical sermon. Religion is central to Dune and often cast in a negative light. Even so, I think it is too simplistic to decry it as “anti-Christian” or to attempt one-to-one correlations (Paul Atreides = Jesus; the Bene Gesserit missionaries = Christians; religion is bad in the story = Christianity is bad, etc.).

In an interview, Herbert once stated, “What I’m saying in my books boils down to this: Mine religion for what is good and avoid what is deleterious. Don’t condemn people who need it. Be very careful when that need becomes fanatical.” In other words, the themes explored in Dune are less of an assault on religion than a cautionary tale underscoring the danger of exploiting religion for power.

Dune is about power —who truly has the power, and what does it take to gain it? Does power come from armies and political titles or from faith and charismatic leaders? Do the Fremen have the power of numbers and arms, or do Paul and Jessica hold the true power due to their influence? The Bene Gesserit debate who to support as their puppet messiah based not on character but on ease of control.

A quote from the book gets reworked in the film: “The power to destroy a thing is the absolute control over it.” Indeed, to demonstrate his ultimate control over the planet of Arrakis and its valuable spice, Paul threatens to destroy the spice fields with nuclear weapons. Yet, the relationship between power and control is circular; power may lead to control, but one must first gain control to wield power.

Early in the film, a skeptical Chani says, “If you want to control people? Tell them a messiah will come.” In an interesting twist, the prophecies used to stir up allegiance from the Fremen are fabrications spread by Bene Gesserit missionaries over many years. “It’s not true,” Paul says, “It’s just a story you keep telling.” This invented gospel preys on people’s primal need to worship and believe. Regarding the southern region of the planet where the “fundamentalist” Fremen live, it is said, “Nothing can live there without faith.” One of these fundamentalists declares that he doesn’t even care if Paul believes himself to be the messiah, saying “ I believe it.”

In the Bible, Paul declares that if Christ were not truly resurrected, then his faith was vain, and Christians were fools who should be pitied most of all people (1 Cor. 15). According to the Bible, a faith built on a false gospel is an empty and meaningless pursuit. Conversely, in Dune , faith built on a lie can be used as a tool to gain power. In perhaps the most tragic line in the film, Paul laments that the Fremen are no longer friends but merely “followers.” It is unclear what Paul ultimately comes to believe of himself, but the potential power to be wielded as the Messiah is intoxicating.

At a fundamental level, a biblical worldview and Dune diverge in significant ways. Christianity is a true gospel, whereas the prophecies in Dune are false (both in-story and as the product of an imaginative sci-fi tale). Yet Christians can share in Dune ’s caution against abusing faith and fanaticism. We need look no further than the realm of politics to see how religion can be wielded as a pathway to influence and power, regardless of whether the underlying faith is sincere.

Dune offers a mostly pessimistic view of religion and exposes the dangers of faith built on falsehoods. Christians can be more hopeful, knowing our faith is built on truth and that Jesus calls us to a life of submission rather than dominance. Dune reminds Christians that true power can be found only in a God who transcends this world.

SIGHT (Christian Movie Review)

Tolkien (Movie Review)

Baymax! (Christian TV Review)

by Dennis Gannon

Instead of other countries being good or bad, Sci Fi writers use other planets so as to not offend fellow countries on Earth. Jesus has a kingdom, but not forwarded by force like the Holy Roman Empire tried to do since Constantine. Still the movie touches a nerve on the need for cleansing of Universe in the movie (really meaning Earth). Today there is only lying by the media, politicians, doctors, most churches, that a hunger to get rid of them all is very tempting. Hence the movie is a hit, and the anticipated Holy War strikes a strong chord here on Earth.

Costumes and music

The costumes are fabulously, intentionally gaudy, which makes for a fun, colorful production. Many of the gowns also show various amounts of cleavage.

The soundtrack consists mostly of pop songs with the lyrics tweaked here and there. Even though I wouldn’t have minded a few changes, I found it a rollicking good time, and would probably buy the soundtrack.

Sexual references

The film includes a couple of veiled sexual references; a princess is willing to marry the prince, and says on occasion they must perform the “disgusting” practice of trying to make a son. On her way out, she says he hasn’t got much going on “upstairs… nor downstairs, either,” she suspects. Other women (Malvolia and Narissa) tell Prince Robert they want to have his baby.

Some of the dancing is sensual and a bit provocative. Men ogle women, and women men.

There’s a sexual innuendo rumor about the Prince still receiving spankings from his attractive mother, the Queen (“gets spanked on the tush-tush”). The prince dismisses this by saying that they get along well, but “not THAT WELL.” Ella and Prince Robert kiss. The king and queen sing about having made babies together.

One of the mice confesses he just peed, and “you’ll never guess how it works!” with a reference to his “front tail.”

The words “ Holy Hell ” are used. A mouse squeaks out, “ Holy fudge!” in surprise. There are two uses of the British term “ bloody ,” and several uses of “Oh my G*d!” and “G*d.” “What in G*d’s name?” is also said, as well as at least one other inappropriate use of the word H*ll .

Measured against the other Cinderella adaptations, this one is all about female empowerment , and offers a slew of terrific vocal talent, but the Disney film from a few years ago had a much better message in its simple but profound encouragement for women to “have courage… and be kind.” This Ella isn’t unkind, in fact she’s very likable, but she knows what she wants and is going after it! As it turns out, marriage isn’t in her future, but living with the prince is, which disappointed me.

For a follower of Christ, what is LOVE —a feeling, an emotion, or an action?

What is true love and how do you know when you have found it?

Purity —Should I save sex for marriage?

What is sexual immorality ?

Is the FEMINIST MOVEMENT the right answer to the mistreatment that some women endure in this sinful world? Answer

Profane language: Moderate— • “Oh my g*d!” and “g*d” (several) • “What in G*d’s name?” • “ Holy H*ll • H*ll • “ Holy fudge!”
Vulgar/Crude language: • “ Frickin ” • “ Bloody ” • song lyric: “most men are ho's”
Sex: None, but there are sexual innuendos and comments, and a little kissing
Occult: Mild
Nudity: Minor
Drugs/Alcohol: Minor— drinking and talk of being drunk
Violence: Light and slapstick, although a queen says she murdered a man to gain the throne

Frick and Frick'n

See list of Relevant Issues—questions-and-answers .

PLEASE share your observations and insights to be posted here.

IMAGES

24 Best Christian Movies on Netflix 2021
The 12 Best Christian Movies of 2021
24 Best Christian Movies on Netflix 2021
5 Best Christian Movies 2021
Top 5 Best Christian Movies To Watch This Christmas (2021) » The
Christian Movie ‘Courageous’ Re-Releases In 2021 With New Scenes And Surprise Ending

VIDEO

Welcome to Christian Movies!
Welcome to Christian Movies
Venom And The Mark Of The Beast Rapture Movie Reviews
A Retired CIA Black Ops Agent Gets Shocked After Finding Out His Best Friend Is A Killer
Top 10 Christian Films
The Creator Official Teaser Trailer Review

COMMENTS

Plugged In Movie Awards: 2021: Best Christian Movies
Nominations for our final Plugged In Movie Awards category lands … well, right below these few introductory sentences. It was a pretty interesting year for Christian movies, and our slate of worthy nominees feels more diverse than in some past years: From comedies to dramas, from events that took place more than 100 years ago to events that could've taken place yesterday, Christian ...
The 12 Best Christian Movies of 2021
9. The Most Reluctant Convert: The Untold Story of C.S. Lewis. A staunch atheist becomes one of the world's leading Christian thanks to the influence of friends. The film tells the true story of ...
Home
In CATCHING FAITH, Christian mother Alexa Taylor must reevaluate her seemingly perfect life when it is upended by a series of troubling events: the death of her father, her son caught drinking, her daughter cheating on a test, her marriage shaken by a lie, etc. CATCHING FAITH is genuinely engaging and does a good job courageously facing down tough choices confronting today's Christian families.
Plugged In Movie Awards: Best Christian Movie (2021)
Show Me the Father: The Kendrick Brothers, Alex and Stephen, are household names for many Christian movie fans. They're the guys behind films such as Fireproof, Courageous, Overcomer and Facing the Giants, among others. With Show Me the Father, though, the Kendrick Brothers have produced their first documentary film.
16 Best Christian Movies, Ranked According to Rotten Tomatoes
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 85%. One of the most spectacular period movies on record, The Best Years of Our Lives helmer William Wyler 's astounding epic is based on the most popular Christian novel of ...
The Best Movies of 2021
3. Nine Days. When it released in July, I called Edson Oda's Nine Days "2021's most spiritually curious film.". I'd still stand by that. A Spike Jonze-esque surrealist drama about "soul candidates" vying for a chance at life, the indie film explores the most fundamental questions of existence.
West Side Story (Christian Movie Review)
West Side Story (Christian Movie Review) Review by Montgomery Loehlein December 17, 2021. Share Twitter Facebook Pinterest. Overall ... West Side Story (2021) is an adaptation of the 1957 Broadway musical of the same name that was loosely based on Shakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet. It was previously adapted for the screen in 1961.
The Girl Who Believes in Miracles
At first, nobody believes Sara. Even when her brother, Danny, and his girlfriend, Cindy, witness a bird's resurrection after Sara prayed for it, they remain skeptical. Perhaps the bird was just stunned or sick. Maybe it was the wind that woke it up. But Sara remains adamant: God brought the bird back from the dead.
Break Every Chain (2021)
Break Every Chain: Directed by Tim Searfoss. With Ignacyo Matynia, Dean Cain, Krystian Leonard, Collins Randolph. A true account of how God forever changed the life of a police officer who was battling alcoholism, depression, and devastating loss.
The 15 Best Christian Movies of 2022
7. Farmer and the Belle (PG) An aging fashion model discovers the true, biblical meaning of beauty when she travels back to her hometown and encounters old friends, including the man who once was ...
Luca (2021)
Luca and Alberto's disobedient choices might require a pre-movie conversation with kids. But other than that (and some name-calling), there's little here that would be considered problematic. And, the film's solid messages on genuine friendship and acceptance could lead to solid Biblical conversations as well.
A Week Away movie review & film summary (2021)
A Week Away. The teen musical "A Week Away," about a juvenile delinquent who finds faith, friendship, and love during a one-week stint at a Christian youth camp, is Netflix's bid to grab a piece of the so-called "Christian film market," one of the few genres of feature to have experienced growth in the last couple of decades.
Cruella (2021)
MOVIE REVIEW. Cruella ... 2021 USA Release: May 28, 2021 —with Disney+ Premier Access release on same date as theatrical release DVD: September 21, 2021: Relevant Issues. REVENGEFULNESS— Becoming devoted to hatred and getting revenge. Learn about SPIRITUAL DARKNESS versus spiritual LIGHT.
RESURRECTION (2021)
RESURRECTION is an entertaining movie version of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, streaming on Discovery+. The movie starts with a visualization of Roman power in Jerusalem. Quickly, it moves to Jesus' arrest, Caiaphas asking Jesus if He's the Messiah, and Jesus responding, "I am.". Jesus is crucified, Peter denies Jesus, and the ...
Jungle Cruise (2021)
Christian parents can also point out the healing powers of the "Tears of the Moon" is fictional, but Jesus is mankind's true healer. Among Disney movies based on Disney theme park rides, "Jungle Cruise" is fairly good—way better than "Haunted Mansion," but not as memorable as the original "Pirates of the Caribbean."
10 of the Best Christian Movies Streaming Right Now
A Week Away (TV-PG, 2021): If a Christian comedy is rare in the world of cinema, a live-action Christian musical is practically unheard of. This Netflix production, which rolled out just this spring, stars up-and-comers Kevin Quinn and Bailee Madison as Will and Avery, two teens who discover each other, a purpose and a new sense of faith at a Christian summer camp.
'The Jesus Music' Review: Nostalgic Christian Music Doc Plays ...
'The Jesus Music' Review: Skimming 50 Years, a Christian Music Doc Chooses Its Controversies Carefully Reviewed online, Oct. 3. 2021. Running time: 109 MIN.
Risen Movie Review
Our review: Parents say ( 8 ): Kids say ( 11 ): Fine acting by stars Fiennes and Tom Felton (as Lucius) elevates RISEN somewhat, even if it's hampered by a straightforward script that doesn't leave much room for lyricism or depth. A Biblical tale this epic arguably has endless potential for artistry, but instead, Risen feels more like a lesson ...
Top Christian Movies Streaming Now
The Jesus Music (Hulu, 2021): Like Blue Miracle, The Jesus Music made our " Best Christian Movies " list during the Plugged In Movie Awards earlier this year. This documentary takes us through the history of contemporary Christian music. That journey starts in the late 1960s and early '70s, then moves into our more worship-themed age today.
God's Not Dead: We the People (2021)
God's Not Dead: We the People: Directed by Vance Null. With David A.R. White, William Forsythe, Isaiah Washington, Antonio Sabato Jr.. Reverend Dave defending himself and a group of Christian homeschooling families after the inspection by the local government official.
Dune (2021)
Sequel: "Dune: Part Two" (2024) T he Padishah Emperor has ordered House Atreides to pack up and move from temperate timberland, Caladan, to arid sandbox, Arrakis. The cosmic house swap is completed when rival House Harkonnen abandons Arrakis for the incoming House Atreides. And so begins an era of peace and prosperity on the Atreides-ruled Arrakis.
Dune: Part Two (Christian Movie Review)
Dune: Part Two is a triumphant, sweeping sci-fi spectacle; a visually impressive and thematically complicated story about the interplay between faith, religion, and power.. About the Film . Three years after Dune: Part One, audiences can finally be transported back to the spice-infused sands of Arrakis.As with the first entry, Dune: Part Two makes two facts clear: Dune is a difficult story to ...
Cinderella (2021)
MOVIE REVIEW. Cinderella ... 2021 USA Release: September 3, 2021 (Amazon Prime Video) DVD: June 21, 2022: Relevant Issues. Wokeness/Wokism in Post-Modern entertainment. ... Unfortunately, at the end of the movie, Ella and the prince decide rather than get married, to "travel around the world together," and resist having a "label" put on ...