Onward and Upward (Review)

I finally got to see the movie Jesus Camp. One I mentioned in an earlier post and had been excited to see. The following are a few thoughts and notes on the film.

Thoughts:

In the end I think this movie is very good in depicting the situation we currently face as Christians in the US although it may not be thorough enough to explain it to a non-believer. Becky Fisher does a great job trying to explain the evangelicals side and why kids are involved. The filmers themselves do well to attempt to give a realistic view of things (though a few moments seemed to mock the Christians). The children themselves were passionate and active enough to dwarf and humble many or most Christians I know which is certainly enough to spark my passions up all over again. The movie was very potent and in that I suspect it will draw both weird looks and criticisms as much as intrigue and renewed passions. Both adorable and tear-jerking this movie is a great one to rent if you get the chance.

Problems:

The movie exposes many sides and uses well placed terminology, but it would be hard to impossible for a non-Christian or even a partial one to appreciate. The terminology often used such as "war", "radical", "righteous judges", and "laying down lives" could lead (and has led) some people to think the wrong things. Especially when placed in comparison to Islam or other religions. The movie does not truly explain in sufficient detail such terms. The only other issue the movie raises in my mind is that in exposing several viewpoints without taking a definitive stance on any one it does not truly explain the correct from the incorrect, leaving the viewer to wander over the presented info. That might sound fine, but given the topic I don't think it is.

Characters:

Mike Papantonio- Claiming Christianity, but spewing false messages which seem to be based on misunderstandings which he and those who listen to his show agree on. Over and over he makes it out to be a political cause all the while claiming he is and understands Christianity. (Granted a Chirsitian life has to do with politics as much as it does with all facets of life, but not nearly in the context he spoke of.) I assume he was placed in it for balance, but I could have done without it, until Pastor Becky Fisher put in line anyway.

Becky Fisher- The main adult star of the film and one of the foremost children’s ministers of the day. She went over much of her technique and approach as well as her reasoning for the things she does which was very insightful. While some of what she said could be misconstrued I saw no fault in her approach or successes.

The Kids- Obviously the stars of the film, the three main characters are Tory, Rachel, and Levi. They, their words and actions in the film, are full of passion and vitality for a cause they understand better than many adult Christians. Watching them act inthe Holy Spirits power is truly inspiring to me, nearly a tear jerker. It was also quite nice to see the parents of the children as having grown up in public school and without a heavy Christian upbringing I think of what I would do as a parent in these dark days.

Ted Haggard- Filmed briefly making jokes that could easily fuel the fire of someone who already has decided upon what kind of person he is or what he stands for. Ultimately, his short stint in the film could have been left out without detriment to the film. (This scene being filmed prior to his semi-recent sex scandal. A point that may wound the credibility of the film to some degree.)

Overall a must see for Christian movie goers. I'd really like to get into specific scenes, but I've already babbled enough.