We attended one of the sneak previews - Thursday night. We loved the movie. There were two glitches - audio continued while screen was blank - don't know if that was a problem with the theater or editing that needs to be finished. Didn't detract from the story line. I gave it 9 stars. I felt that the acting at the beginning was a bit forced, although everyone settled into their characters pretty easily. Also, there was a lot of ground (controversial topics) to stuff into 90 minutes. The scene where they pick out clothing for Saturday evening was cute but the time might have been better used to smooth out other dialog - make it flow more naturally. Still, I loved it!
There was low attendance at the preview. I blame that on lack of any publicity. I only learned of it while booking online tickets for the opening of Amazing Grace. After attending the movie, no one I talked to had heard of it at all. My understanding is that the Wednesday night showing was also very low, but that doesn't surprise me as many of the people who might have attended this movie were probably at church on a Wednesday night. They need to do better advertising for opening - and remember the scheduled of those most likely to attend.
I LOVED the character Rhonda and how the others related to her. Rhonda seemed to be working to remember her lines, but there is a scene where she really was trying to go by a script she showed to Sherry (it didn't work) and so maybe a lot of the rest of the time this character would script out in her mind what she wanted to say and then deliver those lines rather than being herself. Her final lines did appear to be from the heart.
The character of Gary was the best portrayed. He seemed the most natural in acting. I would love to know his background - how was he able to answer Rhonda the way he did with the verses from Isaiah? What in his past made him know that?
In spite of Rachel's sneaky manners, one couldn't help but feel a little sorry for her.
Award for best facial expression goes to: Pastor Wexler after all the prayers and sharing.
At the preview we saw a deleted scene with Gary and Jeremy. Although I think it needs a little tweaking (seemed a bit rough, not the normal easy flow of a casual conversation), I really wish they'd put it in! The movie is only about 90 minutes long and can easily absorb this scene which I think addresses a valid question from many people.
I wish I could see this again right now! I'd love to have the chance to see the humorous parts, think more on some of the more poignant lines delivered, just enjoy the characters and their interaction again.
I will probably try to take family/friends to see this when it is released (although I really DO hate to pay the high ticket prices! That's why I stay away from theaters!) but will definitely buy this when it is released on DVD and show that to friends and family.
I only went to the preview because I am hoping that by voting with my feet, more movies like this will be made.
