At The Movies

Woodlawn Age Rating: PG Runtime: 124 minutes Studio: Pure Flix Entertainment Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A powerful true story about faith, forgiveness, racial reconciliation, and how one spiritual awakening helped transform a football team, a school, and a community during a time of deep division in America. Ratings My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 79% Metacritic: 57/100 TMDb: 6.9/10 (approximate average user rating)  Plot Summary Set in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1973, Woodlawn follows the true story of Tony Nathan, a talented African American football player who joins Woodlawn High School during the turbulent period of school desegregation. Racial tensions are high both on and off the football field, and conflict threatens to divide the team and the community. When a visiting sports chaplain shares the Gospel message with the football team, many players commit their lives to Christ. Their newfound faith begins to change their...

Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story Age Rating: TV-14 Runtime: 90 minutes Studio: The Hatchery / Sony Pictures Television / TNT A struggling inner-city student overcomes poverty, prejudice, and personal anger through faith, discipline, education, and perseverance to become one of the world's most respected neurosurgeons. Ratings: My Rating: 7.7/10 The Dove Foundation: Family-Recommended / Inspirational IMDb: 7.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 85% Audience Score  Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 7.7/10 (approx.) Plot Summary: Based on the autobiography of Ben Carson, the film follows Carson's journey from a troubled childhood in Detroit to becoming a pioneering neurosurgeon at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Raised by his single mother Sonya Carson, Ben struggles academically and emotionally. Despite having little formal education herself, Sonya insists that Ben and his brother read books, limit television, and pursue excellence. Through hard work and determination, Ben transforms from one of the weakest stud...

Freedom Writers Age Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 123 minutes Studio: MTV Films, Jersey Films, Double Feature Films, Paramount Pictures A powerful true-story drama about a young teacher who uses compassion, literature, and personal writing to break through racial hatred, gang violence, and hopelessness in an inner-city classroom. Ratings: My Rating: 7.1/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Approved / Mature Teen Audience IMDb: 7.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 69% Metacritic: 64/100 TMDb: 7.4/10 Plot Summary: Set in Long Beach, California during the aftermath of the Los Angeles riots, the film follows Erin Gruwell, a new and idealistic English teacher assigned to a classroom full of students considered “unteachable.” Her students come from different racial gangs and backgrounds, and many have experienced violence, poverty, abuse, and death firsthand. At first, the class rejects her completely. Over time, Erin begins connecting with them through literature such as The Diary of Anne Frank and by encouraging them ...

Full Name: David Andrew Roy White Date of Birth: May 12, 1970 Place of Birth: Dodge City, Kansas, United States Parents: Father: Mennonite pastor Education: Attended Moody Bible Institute (briefly) Spouse(s): Andrea Logan White (married 2003 – divorced 2020) Children: Ethan White (Mother: Andrea Logan White) Everson White (Mother: Andrea Logan White) Ocean White (Mother: Andrea Logan White) Career / Professions: Actor, Director, Screenwriter, Producer, Businessman Acting / Performance Credits: 1. Evening Shade – Role: Andrew Phillpot, 1990–1994 2. The Visitation – Role: John, 2006 3. Bells of Innocence – Role: Luke, 2003 4. Mercy Streets – Role: Nick, 2000 5. God’s Not Dead – Role: Reverend Dave, 2014 6. God's Not Dead 2 – Role: Reverend Dave (2016) 7. God's Not Dead: A Light in Darkness – Role: Reverend Dave (2018) 8. God's Not Dead: We the People – Role: Reverend Dave (2021) 9God's Not Dead: In God We Trust  – Role: Reverend Dave (2024) Directorial / Production Cre...

The Jesus Film Runtime: 137 minutes Studio: Worldwide Pictures Country of Origin: United States A faithful cinematic portrayal of the life, ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, based primarily on the Gospel of Luke. Ratings: My Rating: 8.0/10 The Dove Foundation: G IMDb: 7.9/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Filmed on location in Israel, Jesus follows the life of Christ from His birth to His resurrection. The narrative is closely based on the Gospel of Luke, emphasizing Jesus' teachings, miracles, and ultimate sacrifice. Critics Review: Praised for its authenticity and reverence, capturing the essence of the Gospel narrative with minimal dramatization. Christian Perspective: Widely regarded as a faithful representation of the Gospel of Luke, making it a valuable resource for personal reflection and group study. Family Friendliness: Rated G; suitable for all audiences. Notable Songs: Score by Marlin Skiles

The Passion of the Christ Runtime: 127 minutes Studio: Icon Productions Country of Origin: United States A depiction of the last 12 hours of Jesus Christ’s life, focusing on His arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection. Ratings: My Rating: 8.1/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Recommended for Families IMDb: 7.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 62% Metacritic: 55 Plot Summary: The film vividly portrays the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus in the hours leading up to and including His crucifixion. Dialogue is presented in Aramaic, Latin, and Hebrew with English subtitles. It emphasizes Jesus’ fulfillment of prophecy and His role as the Savior. Critics Review: Praised for its visual intensity, emotional impact, and adherence to the Gospel of Luke and other Scriptures. Criticism focused on the graphic depiction of violence, which some found excessive. Christian Perspective: Highlights Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice for humanity’s sins and His unwavering obedience to God’s will. Strong spiritual and moral lesso...

The Greatest Story Ever Told Runtime: 198 minutes Studio: United Artists Country of Origin: United States An epic retelling of the life of Jesus Christ, from His birth to His resurrection. Ratings: My Rating: 7.6/10 The Dove Foundation: G IMDb: 7.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 76% Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: The film follows Jesus from His birth in Bethlehem through His ministry, miracles, teachings, crucifixion, and resurrection. It explores His interactions with disciples, Roman authorities, and the people of Judea. Critics Review: Praised for its epic scale, cinematography, and ensemble cast including Max von Sydow as Jesus. Some critics felt it was overly long and slow-paced, but it remains a revered cinematic depiction of Christ. Christian Perspective: Faithful to the Gospel narratives, emphasizing Jesus’ teachings, sacrifice, and role as Savior. Strong moral and spiritual lessons conveyed throughout. Family Friendliness: G-rated; suitable for family viewing. Some scenes of crucifixion a...

Jesus of Nazareth Runtime: 375 minutes Studio: ITC Entertainment Country of Origin: United Kingdom / Italy A miniseries depicting the life of Jesus Christ in great detail, covering His birth, ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection. Ratings: My Rating: 8.8/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 8.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Spanning Jesus’ birth, ministry, miracles, teachings, crucifixion, and resurrection, the series explores His relationships with followers, adversaries, and the political/religious context of the time. Critics Review: Universally acclaimed for its scope, Robert Powell’s performance as Jesus, and faithful depiction of Scripture. Considered one of the definitive portrayals of Christ in media. Christian Perspective: Strong alignment with Scripture; emphasizes Jesus’ teachings, sacrifice, and redemption. Encourages reflection on faith, obedience, and moral living. Family Friendliness: PG-rated; suitable for family viewing with guidance due to some i...

King of Kings Runtime: 183 minutes Studio: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Country of Origin: United States A cinematic retelling of the life of Jesus Christ, from His birth to His resurrection. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 7.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 84% Metacritic: 72 Plot Summary: The film depicts Jesus’ life, including His ministry, teachings, miracles, crucifixion, and resurrection. It also shows the political and social context of first-century Judea. Critics Review: Praised for its epic scale, cinematography, and performances, particularly Jeffrey Hunter as Jesus. Some critics found it slow in pacing but acknowledged its reverent portrayal. Christian Perspective: Faithful representation of Gospel events, highlighting Jesus’ teachings, sacrifice, and role as the Messiah. Family Friendliness: PG-rated; suitable for families with guidance due to depictions of crucifixion and historical violence. Notable Songs: Score by Miklós Rózsa

The Buttercream Gang Runtime: 93 minutes Studio: Feature Films for Families Country of Origin: United States Franchise: The Buttercream Gang Franchise Position: 1 A small-town group of boys called the Buttercream Gang works to help others, but when their leader moves away, his friends try to help him rediscover the values of kindness and service. Ratings: My Rating: 6.2/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: In Elkridge, the Buttercream Gang faces challenges when their leader, Pete, moves to Chicago and becomes involved with a street gang. Upon returning home, his friends help him reconnect with the values of friendship, kindness, and service. Critics Review: Praised for positive messages about friendship and redemption. Some melodramatic elements noted, but performances and emotional depth were appreciated. Christian Perspective: Emphasizes unconditional love, forgiveness, and the importance of positive influence, aligning with Chris...

Image of the Beast Runtime: 88 minutes Studio: Mark IV Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Thief in the Night Franchise Position: 4 Believers continue resisting the global government while spreading the gospel under increasing persecution. Ratings: My Rating: 6.3/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.3/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Patty Myers and other survivors of the Rapture continue to face oppression from the Antichrist’s regime. They risk their lives to share the gospel while maintaining personal faith. The film emphasizes the ultimate triumph of God over evil. Critics Review: Considered a fitting conclusion to the series, delivering suspense and Christian teaching. Production limitations noted, but message resonated with faith-based audiences. Christian Perspective: Reinforces the necessity of faith, courage, and commitment to God even in extreme adversity. Highlights prophecy fulfillment and reliance on divine strength. Family Friendliness:...

A Distant Thunder Runtime: 90 minutes Studio: Mark IV Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Thief in the Night Franchise Position: 3 Believers endure persecution and imprisonment under a totalitarian world government after the Rapture. Ratings: My Rating: 6.2/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Believers captured by the one-world government face trials and forced compliance. Patty Myers and others must hold fast to their faith while enduring torture and witnessing the increasing power of the Antichrist system. Themes of courage, endurance, and God’s sovereignty are central. Critics Review: Praised for maintaining tension and spiritual message. Considered a faithful continuation of the Rapture narrative, though limited by budget constraints. Christian Perspective: Focuses on standing firm in faith despite persecution, trusting God’s protection, and understanding prophecy fulfillment. Family Friendliness: PG-rated; con...

Thief in the Night II: The Last Chance Runtime: 86 minutes Studio: Mark IV Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Thief in the Night Franchise Position: 2 Continuing the story, Patty Myers faces new threats from the global government in a post-Rapture world while strengthening her faith. Ratings: My Rating: 6.1/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Patty navigates a dystopian world ruled by a one-world government. She and fellow believers must survive persecution, avoid capture, and maintain their faith despite fear and societal collapse. Themes of prophecy, trust in God, and perseverance dominate the narrative. Critics Review: Critics noted the film’s suspenseful storyline and faith-driven tension, though some considered the production values low. Its influence on evangelical cinema is recognized. Christian Perspective: Highlights faithfulness under trial, reliance on God’s guidance, and perseverance through tribulatio...

A Thief in the Night Runtime: 88 minutes Studio: Mark IV Pictures Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Thief in the Night Franchise Position: 1 A Christian woman awakens to find the world changed after the Rapture, discovering that those left behind face persecution. Ratings: My Rating: 6.0/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.1/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Patty Myers survives the Rapture and searches for her missing family while navigating a post-Rapture world. She encounters new believers, faces persecution, and learns to rely on God for survival. The film explores themes of faith, prophecy, and preparation for Christ’s return. Critics Review: Praised as an early example of evangelical Christian cinema, though low-budget and dated by modern standards. Its suspense and faith-driven narrative were influential in Christian filmmaking. Christian Perspective: Illustrates the importance of faith, vigilance, and preparedness for the return of Christ. Emphasize...

Mercy Streets Runtime: 100 minutes Studio: Pure Flix Entertainment Country of Origin: United States A convict switches places with his twin brother, leading to a journey of redemption and faith. Ratings: My Rating: 6.2/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Michael Thompson, a convicted criminal, assumes the identity of his twin brother after a prison escape. As he navigates his brother’s life, he confronts his past mistakes and learns the true meaning of forgiveness and redemption. His journey intertwines with themes of faith, family, and moral transformation. Critics Review: Critics noted the film’s heavy emphasis on moral lessons but praised David A.R. White’s performance and the story’s faith-based message. It resonated strongly with Christian audiences. Christian Perspective: Emphasizes repentance, moral integrity, and the power of faith to transform lives. Demonstrates the importance of forgiveness and walking in God’s ways. Fam...

Run the Race Runtime: 114 minutes Studio: Pure Flix Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Two brothers face personal and family challenges while pursuing their dream of playing college football, relying on faith, perseverance, and each other. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 68% Metacritic: 60/100 Plot Summary: Brothers Zach and Devin Baker deal with loss, family struggles, and temptation. With guidance from their coach and Pastor Dave Hill (David A.R. White), they navigate personal obstacles while pursuing college football and maintaining faith. Critics Review: Critics noted predictability but praised the heartfelt performances and moral message. Audiences appreciated the inspirational sports narrative. Christian Perspective: Highlights perseverance, brotherhood, faith, and integrity. Teaches resilience, reliance on God, and making ethical choices. Family Friendliness: Recommended for families; PG-rated, suitable for teens and a...

Do You Believe? Runtime: 120 minutes Studio: Pure Flix Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Interconnected stories explore faith, forgiveness, and redemption through the experiences of ordinary people and a pastor trying to restore belief in God. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.1/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 26% Metacritic: 32/100 Plot Summary: Multiple characters face life-altering challenges, each testing their belief in God. Pastor Dave Hill (David A.R. White) serves as a moral guide, connecting their experiences through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and spiritual awakening, ultimately illustrating God’s power to change lives. Critics Review: Critics found the plot predictable and melodramatic, though audiences praised its heartfelt performances and uplifting Christian message. Christian Perspective: The film emphasizes moral courage, compassion, and living according to Christian faith. It showcases the transformative power of belief, forgiveness, and pr...

Unplanned Runtime: 108 minutes Studio: Pure Flix Entertainment Country of Origin: United States The true story of Abby Johnson, a former Planned Parenthood clinic director who experiences a life-changing encounter that leads her to become an anti-abortion activist. Ratings: My Rating: 6.8/10 The Dove Foundation: PG-13 IMDb: 6.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 48% Metacritic: 40/100 Plot Summary: Abby Johnson rises through the ranks at Planned Parenthood, believing she is helping women. After witnessing an abortion firsthand, she experiences a profound personal transformation and begins questioning the morality of her work. The film chronicles her journey from advocacy for abortion rights to becoming a pro-life activist, emphasizing courage, conviction, and faith-driven change. Critics Review: Critics were mixed, praising the lead performance and emotional impact but critiquing the film’s political and emotional framing as polarizing. Faith-based audiences generally responded positively, valuing th...

The Case for Christ Runtime: 110 minutes Studio: Pure Flix Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Based on the true story of investigative journalist Lee Strobel, who sets out to disprove Christianity but discovers compelling evidence for the faith. Ratings: My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 68% Metacritic: 61/100 Plot Summary: When his wife converts to Christianity, skeptical journalist Lee Strobel begins a meticulous investigation to disprove her faith. Traveling through interviews, historical research, and legal analysis, he examines evidence surrounding Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. The journey challenges his assumptions and leads him to embrace the Christian faith, emphasizing truth, reason, and spiritual transformation. Critics Review: Critics generally praised the film for its thoughtful approach, sincere performances, and faith-affirming narrative, though some found it somewhat didactic. Audiences appreciated the compelling ...

Run the Race Runtime: 114 minutes Studio: Pure Flix Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Two brothers face personal and family challenges while pursuing their dream of playing college football, relying on faith, perseverance, and each other. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 6.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 68% Metacritic: 60/100 Plot Summary: Brothers Zach and Devin Baker struggle with the loss of their mother and their father’s emotional absence. Through football, mentorship, and their Christian faith, they navigate grief, temptation, and personal obstacles. The film highlights resilience, brotherhood, and reliance on God while illustrating the importance of community, hard work, and ethical decision-making. Critics Review: Critics praised the film’s heartfelt performances and positive message, though some noted the story is predictable and formulaic. Faith-based audiences appreciated the emotional depth and inspirational focus. The sports sequences and family...