Lifemark (2022), PG-13, 1 hr 44 min

Lifemark

Year: 2022

Franchise: Kendrick Brothers

Franchise #: 8 (following Flywheel, Facing the Giants, Fireproof, Courageous, War Room, Overcomer, Courageous Legacy)

MPAA Rating: PG-13

Total Runtime: 104 minutes

Tagline: “Every life matters.”

Main Cast

Kirk Cameron as Jimmy Colton

Alex Kendrick as Shawn

Rebecca Rogers Nelson as Susan

Raphael Ruggero as David Colton

Marisa Hampton as Melissa

Dawn Long as Linda

Justin Sterner as Nate

Reviews

Synopsis: Lifemark is inspired by the powerful true story of a young man named David who is contacted by his birth mother years after being adopted. What unfolds is a beautiful journey of forgiveness, identity, and healing. The film doesn’t shy away from hard decisions—Melissa nearly had an abortion, and David’s adoptive parents made countless sacrifices. But love, grace, and God’s providence shine through every moment.

Overview: This is hands-down the Kendrick Brothers’ most mature and cinematic film. It’s less like a ministry message in movie form and more like a professionally told, real-life story—with raw emotion, subtle gospel threads, and honest conversations. Adoption, life after Roe, and family healing are all at the core, but the tone is gentle, never preachy. You'll likely cry—more than once—and walk away encouraged and challenged.

Family Friendliness: Though rated PG-13, it’s completely clean in terms of language and content. The higher rating is likely due to the emotional intensity and real-life themes—abortion, adoption, regret, and reunion. Nothing is shown graphically, and everything is handled with tenderness. A perfect watch for older kids, teens, and families—especially adoptive families or those involved in foster care or pro-life ministry.

Christian Perspective: The gospel message is present but woven gently through the dialogue and outcome, rather than preached from a pulpit. The film places a high value on life, family, sacrificial love, and redemption. It’s pro-life without being harsh, pro-adoption without romanticizing it. The story itself is the testimony. Viewers will walk away with a deepened appreciation for the sanctity of life and God’s sovereign hand in broken stories.

Critics Ratings

My Rating: 9/10

Dove Foundation: Family Approved for Ages 12+

IMDb: 6.4/10

Rotten Tomatoes: Critics: 57%, Audience: 97%

Metacritic: user ratings are generally favorable.

Notable Scenes

The Birth Mother’s Confession

A quiet, emotional moment where Melissa shares her past decision and why she chose adoption over abortion.

David’s Journal Entries

Heartwarming narration that gives insight into David’s emotions about being adopted—and eventually meeting his birth family.

The Reunion Hug

When David meets his birth mother for the first time—it’s a moment of pure grace and healing.

Hospital Flashback Scene

A recreated dramatization of Melissa almost going through with an abortion—but walking out at the last minute.

David’s Baptism

A subtle but powerful nod to the spiritual redemption he’s found through faith and family.