Joshua

Sans four letter words and violence, this movie is enjoyable family entertainment. Its message is not only "Christian" in nature, but also reflects back to those times in the first half of the twentieth century when we were able to walk the streets in safety, never lock our doors, and actually know our next door neighbor and the entire neighborhood for that matter. While it is predictable, the movie still holds one's interest from beginning to end. Don't look for the technical flubs or the adaptation of Joseph Girzone's book, and don't scoff at the ecumenicism, because the movie stands on its own. It is only based on the book and was scripted well. Just enjoy the sense of community and love. Tony Goldwyn is commendable in the role of Joshua and Academy Award Winner F Murray Abraham is notable as the skeptical and fear driven parish priest. The characters forming the community of Auburn display those neighborly times spoken of earlier in this review. Academy Award Nominee Giancarlo Giannini as the Pope is warm and genuine even in his short appearance on the screen. So, get the kids, mom and dad and grandma and grandpa (and the neighbors) into the living room and enjoy this movie together.

There are a few holes in this movie, both theologically and cinematically, but I must say I was touched by it. For a moment I felt Christ's love for us. And while we cannot forget that His love is also a part of His holiness, it was nice to get a brief glimpse of that perfect love. Kudos also to Michael W. Smith, who took on the task of writing a decent score for the film. Fans of the Christian group Third Day will also be pleased to see a nice cameo as well. And on the DVD there's a nice documentary that exhibits the filmmakers' desires to share God's love with the viewer. And if you enjoyed the movie, there's a whole series of Joshua books out there to continue the exploration of "what if Jesus came as the Joshua character"...

This isn't a great film, but I did go to bed last night feeling grateful to be a Christian, and grateful to feel His love for me in a simple movie.

This isn't a movie about the end of the world or the second coming. There is no violence and minimal character development. Yet, this film is captivating. What if Jesus were to come back as a human being? Would he be recognized? Would he be more easily accepted? Or would the same prejudices and arrogance lead to his rejection?

That's the premise behind this movie and the novel by Joseph Girzone. It's not as good as the book (no real confrontation with the Vatican in the film), but is still a film that touches me. I find myself watching it time and again just because it's special and I can't quite put my finger on why.

So watch it and decide for yourself.

Well, I'm very glad that I didn't look at the IMDB entry before I made the decision whether or not I should watch it. I wouldn't have watched it. The movie was nice for a lazy Sunday morning. The message was uplifting and should be to any viewer, regardless of his/her religious affiliation. A stranger comes into town and turns it upside down by being helpful, polite, friendly and courteous. He teaches various characters lessons that are appropriate to the listener. And he seems to have some sort of otherworldly power. The message, that the community would be a much better place if people would drop their prejudices, stop being so selfish, and help one another, is one that all people, regardless of religion, color, nationality, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or whatever difference one may chose to emphasize.

To bring myself to my point, I'm a non-Christian, and I felt this movie was entertaining, educational, uplifting, and had some valuable things to say. It would be really too bad if the fact that it has been labeled a "Christian" movie, caused non-Christians to ignore it, or dismiss the lessons taught as Christian propaganda. I, for one, am glad I took the time to watch it, but not because of the "Christian" message, but because of the message of love. If it hadn't been for the comments made here, I would not have considered it a Christian move, but a movie about Good.

So, for you non-Christians out there, Don't ignore this movie. It's got a great message. There are other explanations for the things that happen in this movie, but the core message, that of community and love, is important for all.

The film "Joshua" was a pure delight.

It was such a refreshing change from the junk that is on the screen today. To see a movie with no swearing or sex was a refreshing change.

I loved the movie as did my husband. It made me cry for joy.

There was a beautiful message to this movie of hope and love.

The first time I had seen it I was at first a bit perplexed as to who Joshua really was. It didn't take long for me to figure it out, and when I did I cried with absolute joy.

What a treasure this movie is and one that I recommend everyone to see.

Joanne Lewis