I have never written a movie review before, so just bear with me a bit as I make my first attempt. :)
Before reading this, you should watch the trailer to get a little bit of context:
Leaving this movie, my head was full of so many emotions, I had a hard time sorting them all out. I felt joy at the movie's message and conclusion and sorrow at the pain that makes this kind of film necessary in the first place. Most of all I felt thankful for having a loving and merciful God who blesses me beyond belief.
I want to talk a little bit about what this movie got right, what made it special, and why I think everyone who cares about the issue of abortion or who has questions about it should see this movie.
First of all, the film was wonderfully written with a talented and passionate cast. So often when you think of "Christian" films, we picture low budget quality production and actors. This was definitely not the case with October Baby. The writing was great, the production quality impressive, and the cast was incredible. I was truly impressed by how everything was brought together. It was simply a great and entertaining movie. For that reason alone it is worth watching.
Secondly, October Baby was not "preachy." It didn't have any rhetoric or condemning language. Although it was obviously written by those with a passion for Life and with the intent of changing hearts and minds about the abortion issue, the power of this movie is that it simply told a story. It shared the story of issues and struggles that, unfortunately, many men, women, and families have gone through before. It humanized the issue, taking it from one of arguments and political talking points, and putting it into the perspective of the men and women who are affected the deepest by abortion.
Lastly, the film was centered on the idea of forgiveness. I think this is something many struggle with in the pro-life movement. I know that sometimes I have a hard time understanding what motivates a women to make a certain choice or what drives someone to work at an abortion facility. Sometimes my lack of understanding can turns to anger and I find it hard to love others the way I should. This film reminded me that we are all sinners and are all in need of forgiveness. God has been gracious enough to give me a second chance and to forgive me and, in response, I should love and forgive others in the same way, through Christ.
I left October Baby with a renewed sense of purpose and an even stronger passion to work for Life. It's amazing what an impact a simply story can have when it is full of truth, love, and hope. I pray that each of you has an opportunity to see this film and share in this wonderful and inspiring experience.
On a side note, I found the story of the actress who played the main character's birth mother to be especially inspiring. It was a great reminder that God truly works in mysterious ways and leads us to exactly where we need to be. Check it out!
