Love, Kennedy

I have to say, I'm profoundly disappointed by the reviews that trashed this movie because the subjects of the movie were Mormon - you wouldn't even know it until the end, and even then there was nothing to be worked up about, unless you are so afraid of the Mormons that a scene of missionaries offering words of comfort to a bereaved family somehow scares you. There is not one drop of evil or ill-will in this film. Just pretend the young men in suits that only occupy a couple of minutes of the film are old men in robes, and you'll get over it.

That aside - is this a perfect movie? Nah. It's a bit forced and manipulative, but it's also a wonderful story of love. Love of family. Love of a community, and yes, love of God. It might be a bit heavy for young children, but a perhaps a good movie for them anyway. This is a true story whose sole purpose is go inspire and comfort. For a low budget, independent film, the production values and acting aren't bad either. Thank you for sharing your family with us.

I've never watched something so heart warming i found this movie at the perfect time. Cried the whole movie

Seems like most those who gave the film one star were only here to bash The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. How sad. While the film will certainly be well received and more clearly understood by members of the church, the love, kindness and generosity of spirit shown throughout the film appeals to any decent audience. By their fruits ye shall know them, right?

All the acting was very solid and believable. Tatum Chiniquy certainly had a challenging part to play but did so with warmth and dignity. Jasen Wade was excellent as always.

Probably an 8 star movie but I will give it 10 to make up for those who can't give an unbiased review.

I seen the commercial on the TV and I really really wanted to watch that movie. I when I finally found it and watched it it threw me completely offguard. I love the story about this little girl true story by the way. I would definitely recommend it And I would recommend a box of tissues or two. Thank you to the Hansen family For such a loving and giving story my heart goes out to you amen.

I was kind of disappointed that Kennedy got older because I was really liking Scarlett Hazen as the bratty little girl and even Liza Brown as the concerned younger sister. What I hoped was that the whole movie would be about her, although I had looked at the brief summary and knew something terrible would happen. The young girl came back briefly in flashbacks, though.

Then Tatum Chiniquy took over and she just wasn't as good or as likable, but she sure was pretty. She too showed a strong faith but didn't have this bratty quality. Okay, maybe she's a little naughty, doing things she shouldn't, and annoying her brother. Chiniquy improved greatly later on, as she had challenges that showed how skilled an actor she really could be. What a loving girl, and what a positive effect she had on others. And what a great personality.

One very loving scene is the one where the family meets Charlee, who has the same disease as Kennedy and is almost unable to do anything and hasn't spoken.

I hated to think that people would mistreat this girl because she was so different, but even the shallow cheerleaders showed they had a good side. There was actually little negativity. Not even from the opponents in football games when Kennedy became a cheerleader. As hard as she tried, she couldn't do what they did, but she did the best she could and everyone appreciated it. And those girls were fantastic.

Everyone loved Kennedy, and why not? She loved everyone. She couldn't have a negative attitude. I am reminded of television's JJ DiMeo. Okay, he could have a bad attitude at times. That's what some might think this movie needed. She certainly had a good reason for a bad attitude. She didn't need to, because she had faith.

It is never stated that the Hansens were anything other than Christian. Some Mormon boys are shown training to do their missions, and missionaries spread their message late in the movie, but it is never stated that Jason is part of that faith. But Jason's faith is strong, whatever it is. There is no secret about why Jason feels the way he does. And he receives divine messages from time to time.

The faith message in this movie is strong and some might object to being preached to. Still, those already in the faith will see a powerful message and a wonderful example. Some who aren't might be inspired.

We do get to laugh from time to time. For example, Kennedy's behavior annoys her brother Beau, but I am referring to perfectly normal teenage girl behavior and a perfectly normal reaction from her brother.

But just be prepared. If you stay away from "This Is Us" because of what you've heard about tears, be warned this is far worse.

There are several styles of music, including at the dance. Later, there is a hymn I like performed in the way I like. Other than that, I don't share Kennedy's musical taste. The credits specifically told us what she liked, and I did not. I suppose that's not important. And there is the obligatory "praise and worship" song which doesn't have explicitly have Christian lyrics. I just can't stand that style. For some, in could be inspiring.

It's certainly worth seeing.