Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot

I was moved to tears throughout the entire movie. It spoke a really deep truth and did not gloss over how difficult it is to foster kids. I took my 13 and 18 year old to see this and they were incredibly moved. They have cousins who came out of the foster system, but still do not understand the gravity of what some of these kids go through. It prompted a great discussion. I was glad I did not bring my 9 and 10 year olds. Difficult truths.

The acting and directing were fantastic. It was a moving story that did not shy away from the hard parts. I loved a look into a black southern Baptist church and the way they worship and support one another in Christ.

This is a wonderful movie. It is definitely for teenagers and older due to the nature of this movie with some intense scenes. Although none of the seems are graphic, they are still impactful. Tissues may be in order! I am a mental health professional, so none of this was surprising to me but will likely be eye-opening for most people. There is sadness, laughter, fear, joy, hope, and faith throughout this movie. This is an important movie to give the average person a glimpse of an often overlooked problem, while focusing on the power of God. With faith and community, this beautiful movie will make you be thankful for all you have and motivated to help those less fortunate. I highly recommend this movie.

I got to see this at an advanced screening. I knew a little about the plot but not everything. I thought it had a high production value from cinematography, quality of acting, and script was well developed. The story is raw. Not overly gratuitous with the violence as in the Sound of Freedom. They hint at the trauma inflicted without showing every detail, but you get the idea, which is why I'd caution parents to watch it themselves first before letting kids under 13 see it, or if your child of any age is sensitive. The pacing of the story was mostly good but they probably could have edited 10-15 minutes out and it would have tightened things up. I encourage people to give this story a chance even though it isn't the most cheerful story, think Sound of Freedom or the original The Color Purple. It is said to be based on a true story. It did make the rounds in the news cycle at the time, however, I won't be surprised to find out later some of the story was altered slightly to enhance drama as we later find out is the case with the majority of movies/tv "based on a true story". The theme is a call to duty for people who are able in some way to rally around kids in the foster care and/or adoption systems. These kids need loving homes where they can heal from the traumas inflicted on them. At the end they show a montage of where some of the people are now which is interesting.

I first learned of the Possum Trot story around 2017 when I heard Bishop Martin speak at a prayer breakfast. I immediately bought his book and read it in almost one sitting. I began following Bishop on social media and knew that he was the "real deal". When my husband and I held a fundraiser to aid in families adopting children, I knew I wanted to invite Bishop and Donna. They graciously drove over to Dallas and I felt like I had made a new friend.

All that to say, sometimes movies are hyped. They're puffed up to make them more entertaining or interesting. Sound of Hope is not that. You will not find a more genuine family than the Martins. And the depiction of their hearts for their community is authentic. The film does not hold back from the heart breaking situations and even shows Bishop and Donna's own weaknesses, frailties and faults with honesty and grace.

This movie is not for the faint of heart. As parents, we sometimes see a PG13 rating and "fudge" a little to allow the 9,10,11 year old to watch. In my opinion, this is not that kind of movie. It deals with very real and traumatic human emotions and actions that most children cannot comprehend. Thirteen is the very minimum age so use discernment. (Again, just my opinion as a parent of now adult children and 6 grandchildren) Bottom line:GO SEE THIS MOVIE! 💯

What an incredibly moving, inspirational, eye opening film! This is not your typical feel good adoption story. This movie is raw, real, and gives you an honest glimpse into the harsh reality of the traumas that children in foster care have experienced and what it takes for families to love them to healing and wholeness. The power of love, community, and hope was a clear message throughout!

The Martin's and the community of Possum Trot are the most loving, caring, and supportive people. Imagine what could happen if every church and community were inspired to be another Bennett Chapel? We can truly turn this whole thing around! Get to the theaters on July 4th!