Movie Review: The Second Chance
We recently rented The Second Chance from the library (for free) mostly expecting a good laugh at the expense of Christian film, which, sadly, tends to be subpar and overly preachy. After viewing the trailors of the film, we didn’t have our expectations too high. However, by the time the credits rolled at the end, we were both pleasantly surprised.
The Second Chance is a film about two men - one from a white church in the well-to-do suburbs and one from a black church in the inner-city projects. Although founded by the same man, each church manifests its mission in a very different way. This film authentically tells the story of how a rebellious son and a street-smart pastor struggle to bridge the gap between their respective churches and cultures. More importantly, at its core, The Second Chance is about being willing to step outside your comfort zone and serve where you are called. (from TheSecondChanceMovie.com)
In his film debut, Michael W. Smith plays the guy from the church in the suburbs. His acting is rather forced and stiff, but, as the movie goes on, it becomes easier to overlook it, or he just got better as they shot the film. Jeff Obefami Carr plays the black pastor in the inner-city church and delivers a much better performance.
I found the movie to be quite moving at times–I even cried twice. The contrast between the mega-church in the suburbs and the inner-city church was striking. One church is full of pastors signing their books, sitting in plush chairs in board meetings, and a service that is quite the show. In the other they are getting prostitutes off the streets, kids out of gangs and feeding the homeless. I found it to be convicting, thought-provoking, and made me consider how I am serving the needy. In all, I think it is a sweet little film with some really moving scenes. So, check it out and I don’t think you’ll be too disappointed, especially if you already have the bar set a little low in regards Michael W. Smith’s acting.
did you watch the extras? the making of the film was interesting i thought, it tells more about the director and why he made it (i forgot his name).
who’s reading the condoleeza rice book? is it any good?
It was late so we skipped the extras, pity, we should have watched them. I’m reading about Condoleeza and haven’t gotten too far yet. She’s a very impressive woman though. Maybe I’ll write a review when I’m finished.