User reviews

Just saw the film at a screening in Hawaii. It was packed despite all this covid stuff. This is the ONLY movie that has made me cry. I don't think I'll find another epic like this that'll make me cry.

I can only imagine what the people of hawaii went through when they all thought they were going to die.

People just have to watch this movie with ABSOLUTELY NO BIASED OPINION or preconceived notion that it is a faith-based film. That's how I came to love it. It's now my favorite movie of all time. Perfect blend of romance and disaster. They don't make movies like this anymore. This movie is full emotions, you feel love, despair, fear, you laugh, you cry, you feel bad for these characters and how they all find Christ in the end. PHENOMENAL STORY. So many people were weeping at the screening. Huge ovation. Everyone I went with LOVED THIS FILM. It stays with you until the end. KUDOS to all the actors and director.

The Motiff: It Doesn't Matter about your race, riches, or fame if you have 20 minutes to live! That's what the movie's all about as the previous posters have said. Loved this movie. It's beyond explanation. Only people who survived the first false missile warning truly understand what I'm saying. That's what makes this film so special. The filmmaker guy survived it too and then took it to the next level.

Kudos to everyone involved with this excellent production. The twist ending was powerful and awe-inspiring. So many people have told me they left the theater really changed. All I can say is if there's one movie to see in your lifetime, this may be it.

God bless everyone on this!

I was in Hawaii when my family got the missile alert - it was terrifying. But you know what? I'm actually glad I went through it. This film brings a ton of closure. I saw this at the Hawaii premiere and it was packed. So many people were crying it was incredible. I also cried as well.

Very touching movie - maybe one of the best films I've ever seen. Maybe I'm saying that because I lived through this incident and the film really makes everything wonderful and clear: If we only got twenty minutes to live, make peace with God and your enemies. Nothing else really matters.

The film gets a perfect 10 from me.

SCORE: 10/10

I actually feel speechless. That was one of the most amazing things I have seen in my life and I got to see it 3 days early. Wow. I feel like that changed the way movies will be made forever. It was the perfect blend of old and new, with absolutely incredible audio and visuals and some of the best storytelling I've ever seen in a movie. I just witnessed history. And this is based on true history in Hawaii.

There were multiple points in which the movie could've ended and I would've been satisfied, but it just kept getting better and better and better. I was also here for that nuclear warning in Hawaii, but all i can say is we were all a part of history that day and this film is a definite must watch. I was sucked in during the moments of breath-taking action, and I cried during every emotional moment this film had to offer.

What a movie! This is it. This is the pinnacle of old-style, non-think, glamorous, suspenseful entertainment.

*Probable SPOILERS* - the missile actually comes, but it's already advertised as such so no spoiler.

By far the best disaster movie ever made with a terrific, diverse cast. Not to be missed.

The entire cast is brilliant and totally believable. This film is an instant classic, watch it now.

You will weep and laugh. Very well-made and actually quite stunning...

We were at the Cannes Film Festival last year (when life was normal) and a bunch of my colleagues and friends wanted to attend this screening, but it was packed. But I got in thankfully.

This is truly one of the best movies I have ever seen. I warn you though that there is discussion on God which might make some a little queasy. I loved how the director really connects you with the nine characters as the nuclear missile approaches. Everyone talked about this after the screening.

I did get teary-eyed as everyone says their final farewells - this is not a spoiler by the way as it shows this in the trailer. You'll feel the pain of the characters as the missile comes. A film like this has never been made before.

In a way the entire film is a beautiful, horrifying masterpiece. What if you had twenty minutes to live as this monstrous missile approaches beautiful Hawaii? The absolutely stunning cinematography mixed with the urgent story-telling is simply masterful.

This is simply one of the best movie I've seen in last few years and I think you will agree when you watch it.

Problems. Well, the romances were perhaps too contrived, in the sense that I just don't accept that the significant others were separated as the missile was coming in.

A minor quibble, though. This is truly an excellent movie. My only regret is my other friends could not get into the screening at Cannes.

9/10

Very Thought provoking film, outstanding feel good movie especially the end which seems strange, but you will understand after seeing it.

Writer-director Tim Chey has a knack for storytelling--already evident by his previous work--but he outdoes himself with this one. Nothing is ever truly predictable, which is an impressive accomplishment considering the type of film. Never is there a dull moment, and the dialogue is so effortlessly perfect without ever feeling contrived. The sappy moments are never that, when any other writer would know no other way. It's a powerful faith-based thriller for the ages and may even be the pinpoint for redefining the genre. Highly recommended for those of you who haven't seen it and are arguing with your other half about what to watch tonight. I promise you'll both enjoy it.

Rating: A+

English is not my best language forgive me - i cannot describe feeling of the moment when kevin and his wife are separate during their impending death. the most emotional moments of my life contain heavy amount of this film scenes. the movie has a diffrent essence which blossoms with every bit of great acting of a most deserving and the best cast in the whole world. with the score of music that personally is the best thing I ever heard and listening in the name of music. when kevin was ready to die i couldn't stop crying...very emotion for me...i give highest score. thank you.

................I recently watch this movie two weeks ago and it's was the most emotional yet so beautiful of a movie it was one of these movies where it made me cry as the nuclear missiles were descending on oahu - it was so emotional and so painful and yet it was a masterpiece I'm glad I saw it and I definitely recommend this movie for all those that need tissues it's just amazing..........

Great movie! This is about the Hawaii missile alert crisis that happened a couple years ago! Great story line with incredible and powerful apologetics about God, meaningful relationships. This is from the same guy who did 'Freedom' I saw on Showtime. Keep these coming, please - we need more intelligent filmmaking that focuses on God rather than always man.

I thought the performances of everyone were magnificent: I cared about the characters and their lives on and beyond the missile approaching. Taking the time to introduce everyone and weave their stories together was masterful, even beyond the main characters.

I loved how the most important thing: Jesus Christ is all that matters in the end. This is a hard-core Christian film, but it will appeal to all. Why? Because it answers the question of what if you had 20 minutes to live?

Visually pleasing in every way, dramatic, musically astounding, great acting and above all a fantastic story make this an undeniably iconic, enduring film.

This film is one for the ages.

In the vast realm of cinematic experiences, one film stands out as a beacon of emotional depth and raw authenticity - "20 Minutes." Directed by a visionary storyteller whose narrative prowess transcends the ordinary, this movie is not merely a collection of scenes but a profound exploration of the human condition. As I delve into the reasons behind why "20 Minutes" can be considered the greatest piece of film ever, I find myself not only appreciating its technical brilliance but also connecting with its narrative on a deeply personal level.

The heart of "20 Minutes" lies in its ability to capture the essence of real-life situations and distill them into a 20-minute emotional rollercoaster. The brevity of the film forces each frame to carry immense weight, and every line of dialogue becomes a poetic revelation. As I watched the story unfold, I found myself drawn into a world that mirrored the complexities of my own experiences. The characters, masterfully portrayed by the talented cast, felt like reflections of people I've encountered in my journey through life.

One of the film's strengths lies in its universality. It tackles themes that resonate with the human spirit - love, loss, resilience, and the inexorable passage of time. The narrative, while specific in its details, becomes a canvas upon which viewers can project their own emotions and experiences. In the poignant moments of the film, I saw echoes of my own joys and sorrows, making "20 Minutes" a mirror that reflects the shared human experience.

The brilliance of the film extends beyond its storytelling; the cinematography is a visual symphony that complements the emotional beats of the narrative. Each frame is a carefully crafted tableau, evoking emotions with the precision of a master artist. The use of light and shadow, coupled with a hauntingly beautiful score, elevates "20 Minutes" from a mere movie to a transcendent piece of art.

What makes "20 Minutes" truly exceptional is its ability to elicit genuine, visceral reactions. As the credits rolled, I found tears streaming down my face - a testament to the film's emotional impact. It wasn't just the characters' journey that moved me; it was the recognition of shared humanity, the acknowledgment that we all grapple with the fleeting nature of time and the inevitability of change.

In a particular scene, as the protagonist confronts a pivotal moment of decision, I felt an uncanny resonance with my own life. The struggles, the dilemmas, and the emotional tumult mirrored my own experiences in a way that transcended the screen. It was as if the film had reached into the depths of my soul and laid bare the raw emotions I often keep hidden. In that moment of catharsis, I realized the true power of cinema - the ability to make us confront our own vulnerabilities and find solace in the shared human experience.

"20 Minutes" is not just a film; it's a mirror, a canvas, and a symphony that resonates with the chords of the human heart. Its greatness lies not only in technical prowess but in its ability to create a profound connection with the audience. As I reflect on the 20 minutes that unfolded on the screen, I am reminded that the greatest pieces of art are those that not only entertain but also touch the core of our existence. In those fleeting moments, I cried not just for the characters on screen but for the beauty of a shared emotional journey that transcends time and space. "20 Minutes" is not just a film; it's a masterpiece that lingers in the soul, a testament to the transformative power of storytelling.

Best emotional movie I have ever watched, I'm watching it again in 2021 & now also it brought me to full of tears, a must watch movie All cast are exceptional in conveying emotion.

1) Compelling story 2) Incredible ending 3) Extremely intelligent dialogue 4) Good diverse characters 5) Faith aspect very powerful 6) Acting was amazing

I went in with some skepticism, but I get now why everyone is talking about this film. HEADS UP: It's not about the last Hawaii missile warning. This is an entire new take on it. The missile really comes as is already advertised. But anyone who lived through that should really watch this movie because as so many previous said, it cleanses you of what happened in an incredible way. You will leave the theater recharged on life. This is the biggest compliment to this film.

If You Were in Hawaii in 2018, You NEED TO SEE THIS.

What a powerful, insanely needful movie about REDEMPTION, FORGIVENESS, and GETTING RIGHT WITH GOD.

If you've got twenty minutes to live, what are you going to do? This is a very serious question that almost never comes up. I believe God above is showing this film to the people of Hawaii. DON'T MISS THIS FILM regardless of your beliefs. I agree that this is maybe the most important movie to see in your life as it powerfully communicates what is the most important thing in your life.

I'm a pastor, but don't let this steer you away if you are an atheist. The director is a former atheist and Harvard alumnus. Just see it and make up your mind: WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN MY LIFE RIGHT NOW.

God bless you all.

Just saw this at a media screening in Honolulu last week and guys what an experience it was.

Components of this Movie-

1. Firstly what a cast! EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER had a great redemption moment in the movie INCLUDING the most unlikable. Great Performances all around.

2. Every Scene flows so well. The time flew by with the clock ticking and flashbacks.

3. Many of the Scenes Landed Strongly throughout the Movie with the audience I was with. Especially the "They can't even finish the rail system" Scene. 😂🤣 Only us Hawaii locals get this. No one on the mainland will. And this movie is for a worldwide audience don't forget.

4. The Visuals of the finale were Astonishing. They looked so good.

5. The Story was good enough, on top of that, the suspense was built up throughout the entire movie. '20 Minutes' gets a 10 just for that

Overall, What A Movie and Going Further, What an Experience it was.

A great story, great film, simply great - it will stay with you forever.

based on that hawaii missile crisis that happened in 2018 where everyone thought an incoming missile was coming. this takes it to a whole new level where a real missile is actually coming!

This was a good film with a powerful message of tragedy, love and redemption all rolled into one. I loved the transformation of each of the nine characters and the repercussions of this possible, horrible 911 event happening with a ballistic missile from North Korea. Well-acted and well-directed. If there were any flaws, I'd have to say that the story showed the typical Hawaii locations again. What about all people of all cultural backgrounds? I would love to see a movie where all of these cultures are shown - like in real life. Nevertheless, the film soared in terms of its values and its understanding of the how a stark ending - 20 minutes left in your life - can bring someone closer to his or her maker. Loved the film and it brought tears to my eyes.

Special thanks to Ed, Julie, Clement for inviting me to the amazing screening. You were right in this is one of the best films I've seen in my life.

Just saw this at Consolidated. Personally, I LOVE this film. However, this film might not be for everyone. DOn't say that this film sucks just because it's religious though! THat is the most inane thing I've ever heard! Disliking a movie just because it has religion in it! The story was sweet. The dialogue could have been better, but let's face it...the REAL star of the movie wasn't the actors...it was that GIGANTIC nuclear missile heading for Hawaii. I think all of the actors including 'The Voice' star Dia Frampton and Jake Red did a fine job. In many ways, this has very old fashioned ideals and is thus an old fashioned style movie, one of the last of its kind that still works ("The Artist" years ago was a rare exception.) I can watch this once a year and will still be emotionally turned to mush by it. That is what makes this an instant classic.

I am still crying as I am writing this review as of right now. I don't even know where to begin. I can now see why so many people recommended I see this film. The blending of genres was masterfully done through the style a Disaster/Action film with flashbacks. The writing was absolutely superb, for a 95 minute movie I found myself completely engaged not even blinking my eye. The music, performances, characters, cinematography, dialogue was so magical I can't even put words here to describe the beauty of everything put into this movie. The performances just take your breathe away. The story is so full of life and heart and what matters in the very end if you have only this amount of time to live. The characters felt so human and that really is what puts this movie at a whole new level. The camerawork is some of the best I have ever seen in any film. I don't even want to spoil how thrilling, chilling, beautifully well done the ending missile part of the film is because it is something you just have to see for yourself and experience the devastating heartbreaking tragedy that occurred. This film might not appeal to atheists or die-hard volcano worshippers on the island, but my prayer is they still see it. God bless everyone. Like the character says in the movie, "I'm a changed person."

The concept for '20 Minutes' is the Hawaii missile alert warning that came in 2018. I remember hearing about this on the news. All the brave people in Hawaii! As a Christian, this movie is very profound and is a total must see film - you cannot miss this movie.

All in all, 20 Minutes is a bonified masterpiece. I normally don't say that about a lot of films because I have been critical in the past with movies of this genre (disaster). Edited splendidly by J. Michael Rosen nd directed with gusto by Tim Chey, "20 Minutes" has the real feel of a true Best Picture Nominee (if it wasn't for the Christianity which is what makes this film work!). It also kind of serves secretly as a public announcement about the dangers of a future missile from a deranged dictator from guess what country?

"20 Minutes" is dangerous, epic, exhausting stuff and when it does move closer and closer to its conclusion, we get the pleasure of seeing two surfer friends come together to escape from the missiles destroying everything in its path. I've gotta admit seeing these two talented actors on screen gives me goosebumps. Oh heck, the whole film gives me goosebumps. If you love Christian movies and want to escape, "20 Minutes" is pretty serviceable. Just get a big bucket of popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the ride. I promise you will leave a changed man for God!

I'm a Christian movie review critic by trade (just FYI)

Agree: A+

'20 Minutes' was a revelation to me . All of a sudden I was on the edge of my seat pulling for the heroes which were the entire cast facing this nuclear missile. The interplay is nothing but genius. In the end all that matters is your relationship to God because we're all going. No one gets a free pass - LOVE THAT LINE.

The movie itself is a nail biter. Even as an adult I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. It was also very realistic. Not counting a few very minor screw ups, I was actually impressed with the special effects and stunts in the movie. Oftentimes if I watch a movie that old, i end up asking myself how I ever believed such a horrendous performance but that isn't the case with 20 Minutes. It still keeps up with today's action movies as if it were released yesterday.

I'd give it 11 stars if I could.

Looking forward to seeing this film - I've heard so much about this film as I live in Hawaii. My friends saw this film at the Cannes Film Festival and said it was packed. FOR THE RECORD, I lived this horror when I got the missile warning on my phone! I understand this time the missile is real and is heading towards Hawaii and these characters have about twenty minutes to live - extremely fascinating!

I hope they don't change the release date. It's suppose to come out in late March and my friends at my church are all going to see it. God bless us all with N Korea at our very door threatening the world with nuclear missies. Time to get right with God.

This was one of the only - if not THE only - faith-based film at the Cannes Film Festival. I was fortunate enough to see this film at the Majestic theater in Cannes, France and it blew everyone in the theater away. I remember '20 Minutes' was like one of the most talked about films at Cannes.

I heard this film is finally hitting theaters this summer (2022) after the covid shut-down and it's about time! Hoping everyone gets a chance to see it!!

10/10 I agree with everyone.....

This movie had me crying, laughing, praying and totally getting lost as this missile descends on the characters. This is arguably the most beautiful film ever made. It drips of courage, redemption, and sacrifice unseen in our society today. Literally, you must see this film or you miss out on something truly breathtaking. The filmmakers understood this and hit a home-run with this movie. Human connection is the theme of the film and in watching it you will find yourself evaluating your life and what matters to you and what you want in life. This movie offers terrific, sharp writing, great acting, solid pacing and perfect use of music as well, and a great blend of faith and tear-jerking drama. .. For me, this movie earns a rare 10/10! A stunning film from start to end.