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As a Christian parent, I know how hard it is to find good, clean movies for family movie night. I firmly believe that more Christian films need to be made, and I applaud those who are working to fill that need.
Ring the Bell is rated PG, though I can't imagine why. There is absolutely nothing objectionable in this movie. (The girl wears a low-necked top and a little cleavage is visible, but it isn't too obvious.) You can watch this with your family without worrying about having to turn down the volume or skipping scenes. There is no bad language, no violence, no suggestive jokes, etc.
Now, I must give my honest opinion: while I enjoyed parts of this film, and though I was moved by it, I didn't fall in love with it. The acting seemed forced, the jokes fell flat, everything was far too predictable, and there was too much diologue. I'm pretty sure that younger children will grow bored quickly. However, there were some genuinely touching moments in the film, and the overall message was very good, and one that we all need to hear.
To recap:
What I liked:
- There was nothing offensive.
- The music was good.
- The message was fantastic.
What I disliked:
- The amateur feel of the film, especially the acting.
- It was too predicatable...too "perfect".
- There was very little action and far too much talking.
Overall, I think this is a decent movie with a great message that could be watched by the entire family.
About Ring the Bell:
Ring The Bell shares the story of a slick, big city sports agent Rob Decker who seems to have it all. But on his latest mission to sign a high school baseball superstar, Rob becomes stranded in a small town where the simplicity of life—and the faith of the people—stand in stark contrast to his own fast-paced, win-at-all-costs mindset. Torn between these two worlds, will Rob have the courage to let faith transform his life? This heartwarming story of redemption is sure to entertain and inspire the whole family.
Ring The Bell features a host of well-known Christian music artists, such as Mark Hall along with his band Casting Crowns, Steven Curtis Chapman, and Matthew West, all who play a role in this inspirational drama. Several former and current Major League Baseball all-stars are also featured in the film: ESPN analysts John Kruk and Rick Sutcliffe (a former Cy Young Award winner), along with Ben Zobrist.
This family-friendly movie was produced by Mark Miller, Beach Street Records' founder and Casting Crowns’ producer. Miller, who is also the lead singer and founder of country music group Sawyer Brown, co-wrote the script with Thomas Weber and Weber directed the production.Ring the Bell is available on DVD for only $19.99DVD Special Features:The Heart of "Ring the Bell"Casting Crowns “The Well” Music VideoOn Set with Casting CrownsFamous FacesA Very Special MovieRinging the BellThe Artists and Music of "Ring The Bell"
You have an opportunity to win a DVD of Ring the Bell! Just leave a comment below about your favorite family movie, and you will be entered. The winner will be announced on Friday, July 5th.
