Southern Gospel

... but, until that story is written someday in the far future, this will do nicely. A tale of a young man with a talent for music but also has a passion for faith. Who carries his Bible with him everywhere. And has many adventures along the way, but ultimately returns to what he loves best. Preaching. To tell the truth, the absolute highest compliment you can give to a faith-based movie is that it does not make a fuss about its roots. This project from writer/director Jeff Smith has an almost two hour run-length, and it fills the time quite nicely. (And passes the Roger Ebert test, you don't look at your watch even once.) As an indie project, it is above average in every aspect. Tight script, solid casting, acting, and direction. Even the music is solid. In fact, you might even wish there was more of it. Recommended. And very under-appreciated. ((Designated "IMDb Top Reviewer." Please check out my list "167+ Nearly-Perfect Movies (with the occasional Anime or TV miniseries) you can/should see again and again (1932 to the present))

Do not look at the 5.7 that is the current rating for Southern Gospel. This is not a cheesy, church actors movie that has the potential to be good but fails miserably because it is so poorly produced. This is as well made as Jesus Revolution, a story of redemption and forgiveness and real life with real issues that can negatively shape our destinies if we let them. Some find their way out of the vortex of darkness by the light of Christ, yet others choose to take matters into their hands and suffer the consequences. Southern Gospel addresses topics such as child molestation, addiction, and suicide and might not be suitable for young viewers, but it has so much to offer as a faith-based movie and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

You'll walk away from this film feeling hopeful. There are some really great performances and the music is so well done. I can't wait to listen to the soundtrack. The writer/director did not shy away from tough subject matter either.

It's so refreshing to see a Christian film deal with things like addiction, suicide, abuse, and even hypocrisy in the Church. We live in an imperfect world, but there is hope.

If you grew up in southern church culture, this film is for you. If you've walked away from church, this film is for you.

Faith-based entertainment is having a new moment in culture and this one is a great example of a thoughtful, real to life, gritty, TRUE story of redemption.

It starts out with "works salvation". This is false doctrine this is false Gospel. No one except Jesus can ever be good enough for heaven. We are all born sinners. It doesn't matter how you dress or never cuss in your life if you haven't accepted Jesus as your Savior you will never be godly enough to God to heaven bc you denied Jesus! Never ever! Jesus loves you and wants you to believe in Him. He will cleanse your sins. You don't have to be good for him. Come to Him as you are, Christ will help you love for him Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Now Sam does eventually mention grace. So that is good. Don't want to spoil the movie though.

Southern Gospel, directed by Jeffrey A. Smith, is a powerful and inspiring film. The film takes viewers on a journey through the lives of Samuel and Julie, each with their own struggles and challenges, who fight to hold onto a dream.

The film's exceptional cinematography transports viewers to the heart of the South, and the music in the film brings to mind the rich musical traditions of churches in the South. The performances of the cast are equally impressive, bringing the music to life with stunning vocals and heartfelt emotion.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Southern Gospel is its ability to convey a message of hope and perseverance, even in the face of life's toughest challenges.

Overall, Southern Gospel is a must-see film that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired. With its stunning visuals, exceptional performances, and powerful message, it is a testament to the power of film to encourage and uplift the soul.