Sound of Freedom

After I watched Sound of Freedom, I felt the same as having just watched The Road. It was a deeply powerful movie, but the subject matter is so disturbing that it's difficult to bear it.

Sound of Freedom is an expertly shot, gripping, and powerful movie. At the end, I wanted to cry and vomit, yet those are not criticisms of the movie, it's the realization that this sickness actually happens every day all over the world. This movie is The Road + Taken, and amped up 500 times.

Jim Cavezel gives an incredible performance. The directing, pacing, and cinematography are perfect. This is definitely one of the most powerful movies I've ever seen, yet I'll probably never watch it again, because my heart won't be able to take it.

First half is very original, chilling and strong, but it gets formulaic and predictable like a Mission Impossible episode toward the end. Mira Sorvino who plays the wife who allegedly inspired the real life hero of this story, could not have been on the screen for more than two minutes, which was a bit disappointing. After all the raves and earned press the film received, it's hard for it not to disappoint on some levels, but one still has to be in awe of the first film to expose the horrific truth about child sex trafficking originating in Latin America. I would have liked to see much more about consumer activity on the US side of the border, given that the US allegedly represents the biggest share of customers that keep this industry going. Perhaps a follow-up film needs to be made to show that side of the story and how the open border plays into it.

"Sound of Freedom" fearlessly delves into the disturbing subject of child sex trafficking, shedding light on a growing and urgent problem. The film strikes a delicate balance by revealing the harsh realities without subjecting viewers to gratuitous and disturbing scenes. Its pacing allows the stories to unfold naturally, transitioning from heavy to hopeful and joyful moments, creating a compelling emotional journey. The beautiful cinematography showcases Colombia's landscapes and culture, respectfully. The film's impact is profound. My only criticism is that the film ends, leaving us with an urge for action but no direction on how to combat the crisis. It leaves an opportunity open where people naturally feel compelled to act but don't know how.

This was a tough movie to watch. It wasn't graphic, but to see, to an extent, what Tim Ballard saw, really hits right in the heart. The children in the movie were phenomenal actors is helping to understand the innocence and fear that one would go through in being in that situation.

My heart went out to each one of them, yet still hurts knowing that they are just actors and there are actual children being sold everyday.

There is a great understanding of what Tim Ballard went through to save the children he did. The sacrifice. The pain, and the darkness that lies within the hearts of people that would take children and destroy their souls and lives.

I give this movie a high rating because it wasn't just a good movie, it was a wake up call to all people that there are atrocities occurring everyday towards children and it needs to stop. I appreciate everything this movie sets out to accomplish and it was so well done. It wasn't graphic, but it told the story that needed to be told the way it needed to be told.

Powerful story about an impossibly difficult topic. Beautifully shot, incredibly compelling, amazing performances (the kids!!!!), gorgeous set design, and that it's based on a true story makes it even better.

Jim Caviezel is incredible in his role as is Bill Camp. I really wish Mira Sorvino had a bigger part as her character is strong and such an encourager (maybe the next movie will be about Tim's wife? I don't want to give it away - but she's a hero too!)

Bravo to the filmmakers for shining a light on a topic that I'm sure most people don't realize just how big this issue is.

It's an action thriller with a big call to action. Go see it - then go be a part of the solution!