The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry

This is the Christiano brothers' best film (thus far), a lovely coming-of-age story about several youths in a sleepy upstate New York town circa 1970. In some ways it seems like the '50s, and the boys' shorts are definitely post-1985 length, but these are minor quibbles. Gavin MacLeod solidly portrays the title character, perhaps the meatiest role of his entire career, and quite likely an accurate reflection of his offscreen personality.

I saw this in the theatre, and the Gospel message is completely at odds with what the other films were selling/saying. It was a sad reminder of what this nation has fallen from.

For what could have been a pedantic, by-the-numbers evangelistic tract on film, this is instead a moving, well-crafted, tightly scripted bit of cinema. If this is any indication, we can expect even better things from the Christiano brothers in the years ahead.

Heart-warming and funny. A golden nugget and light-spirited. Great message to grasp and lesson to be learned. Definitely one to add to my collection. Not your usual movie about bullies, and the secrets of an aged man. This movie is filled with lessons, teachings, messages and warnings. However, there is one overall hidden positive message/lesson that I wonder if anyone has or will notice, between "Dustin" and "Tanya". I really enjoyed this movie and recommend it. Actually thought about using it for a bible study or my own personal teaching for myself. I know I could get a lot more out of this movie than what I have already watching it 5x so far. Unfortunately anything without explicit scenes or tainted by the world's cynical view of everything is very rare in this day in age. Acting is mediocre, but if that's all one gets out of this movie, than sorry but you really wasted your own time with this one.

Fair warning: if you are thinking of watching this movie you need to know that it has a fairly heavy Christian emphasis. I say that NOT because I object to religious emphasis in movies. Not at all. It's just that most movies that seek to make a Christian impact are just completely cringe-worthy, embarrassing and definitely unrealistic - and I'm saying that as a religious person myself. It's sad but true.

This movie also wears its heart on its sleeve and has has a strong evangelical thrust. It lays it on pretty thick. What saves this from being as excruciating as most movies of this genre is the sweet subplot of a young lad trying to win the affection of a girl who has caught his eye and the genuine and moving acting of the kids playing the four boys and the girl. For once here is an American movie that casts teens as teens and not young looking twenty year olds! Amazing. The movie is better and more real because of that. It's nice to see some seasoned older actors too like Gavin McLeod and Robert Guillaume.

Despite some corny scenes, this movie is moving and engaging. My kids liked it, me and the wife did too. I recommend it.

I decided to give this movie a try and went in with an open mind. I usually love to watch scary movies, but some friends who I was with at the time aren't into scary movies and we went in to see Jonathan Sperry.

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised and really touched by this film. Gavin MacLeod did a wonderful job as well as the three boys who played friends in the movie, but I have to say one particular guy stood out in this movie for me. Taylor Boggan, the guy who played Nick the bully, did an amazing job. The emotions he displayed, especially the scene when he was in the bedroom crying to God to help him, brought out emotions in me I never knew I had. He made you feel the pain that his character was feeling, it was such a powerful scene for him to have pulled off beautifully. I know we will be seeing more of this kid, and he is going to be recognized very soon as the strong talented actor he is, he has a great future going for him.

This film whether you are religious or not, tugs at your heart, it makes you want to be a better person. It's a shame because I think a lot of people won't give this film a try because they will think of it as just some religious movie, but it is so much more than that. It is really a coming of age story about three boys, who are tormented by a bully, who is in so much pain emotionally that he takes it out on those around him. And in enters Jonathan Sperry, the one man who sees through his pain and helps him overcome it. He brings these boys together, through his love, patience and teachings, and in the end they are all a lot stronger and more forgiving of one another. This movie has everything, laughter, tears and excitement. I really am glad I decided to give this movie a try, it is well worth it!!!

Here you're going to read a lot of unfair commentary on this film that is largely based on hatred of basic Christian values. That's come to be expected and that point is even made in the film. If you want to be entertained by a family friendly comedy about a kid who learns a valuable life lesson(in an unexpected way) without having to worry about the obligatory negatives of the average theatrical release then you won't be disappointed. I think you'll find as I did a great story and surprisingly professional grade acting among the young cast members and outstanding performances among the senior members. I was surprised by the quality of this film and I expect you will be too.