Faith Like Potatoes

The movie "Faith Like Potatoes" was excellent on several levels. First, the story itself, while heart wrenching, was inspiring. Remember the movie "Chariots of Fire"? Well, "Faith Like Potatoes" is about 10 times more evangelistic, 100 times more heart wrenching, and every bit as inspiring. Some will find the clear presentation of the gospel to be a turnoff. But others will appreciate the unflinching presentation of characters who have obvious flaws and struggles- especially struggles with faith in God.

Secondly, "Faith Like Potatoes" is about South Africans and it was made by South Africans. The sometimes uncomfortable tensions between racial groups in South Africa are not glossed over. But neither are they a focus of the movie. This is just everyday life in South Africa. The tensions in the backdrop of the movie enhance and even explain the drama as it unfolds.

Thirdly, the photography in "Faith Like Potatoes" was wonderful. The cinematography took full advantage of the fact that the setting lends itself quite naturally to stunning vistas and beautifully rugged terrain.

So why give the film an 8 rather than a 10? Two reasons: There were some scenes where the supporting actors were a bit flat and there were a few times when the plot did not flow smoothly (or quite make sense). But overall, this was an excellent film.

I compared "Faith Like Potatoes" to the movie "Chariots of Fire" because they have a similar use of words. I.e. they both use words very sparingly. They attempted to SHOW faith at work in someone's life rather than tell about it. And I think they succeeded.

I have expected some negative comments on this movie, but the last views seems like mere attacks of hatred. I can tell you that Agnus is as true in his words as the Bible are the Words of God. He is humble and have a heart for people, there is no boasting or searching for fame. He regularly have sermons in Hopefield in the Swartland and miracles is an everyday part of life there just as it is in mine and every other person with a personal relationship with God.

The miracles in the movies are easily believable and so is the whole story. I know many people who have had similar life experiences and had a turnaround even more dramatic. I can see how many will scoff at this, but that won't change a thing. God would love to bring you the same riches and glory, but only if you are willing to risk everything in life that you are holding on to so dearly. Its absolutely worth it, God will give you more than you ever had, you will never be needy again!

I'm sure those of you who have been fortunate enough to watch this film have found it very touching and at times painfully honest. Faith Like Potatoes centers around the building of faith as something tangible and real - like a potato. There is no hiding the fact that this is a film with very strong Christian content so be prepared to be exposed to the truth of Jesus! The film may not be outstanding from the acting and screenplay side, but it more than makes up for this with its emotion and intensity. I found myself empathizing throughout as I have had first-hand experience of African farm life and the lifestyle and people in South Africa. I think it will be hard for someone who does not understand these facets of Africa to grasp the imagery and emotional tools used in the film; nevertheless I think that this film will provide every person with their very own experience that will keep them thinking about it long after the credits have stopped rolling.

If at all possible try to get hold of Angus Buchan's book by the same name. It is a must read! If anything, the book and/or the film will change the way you see your spiritual life and open your eyes to a new way of thinking that is not only exciting, but fulfilling. A great movie!!

PROS

+ Great testimony of the conversion of a racist farmer in Africa.

+ Good actors.

+ Beautiful scene of his conversion.

+ Authentic display of the struggle and the hard labor of farmers.

NEUTRAL o It is very much appreciated that the movie includes some sequences of conversations in the Zulu language. But it is inadequate that those sequences do not offer subtitles.

O The mircles of the healing of the woman, the rain upon the wildfire and the crops seem somehow over the top, but are perfectly possible with THEOS. There is also a healthy balance when the child dies and no supernatural resurrection is even intended.

CONS

• Intentional promotion of divisive denominationalism (Methodist Church).

• He preached in de-facto women's clothing.

• He preached only a few weeks or months after his conversion, but the Bible rather models 3 years of discipleship before going into the world (see the example of IESOUS, but necessarily descriptive).

• The conversion appears only as lip service, no baptism is shown nor any display of active repentance towards those whom he verbally and physically abused.

Addendum 15/12/2024: This movie includes many scenes which have the potential of creating doubts in weak believers. Its producer 'Frans Cronjé' has also created the movie 'Born to Win' which includes a nearly identical pattern of alcoholism and rebellion leading to conversion and a pastor. 'Born to Win is highly problematic in regards of very rebellious language towards THEOS, desecreates a copy of the Bible and shows 3 female angels.

I went into Faith Like Potatoes expecting to see a below average movie with shoddy acting and the typical "beat-around-the-bush", "lets-not-step-on-toes" storyline. Yet I got quite the opposite!!! The performances of Frank Rautenbach and Hamilton Dlamini were especially astounding and had me eagerly awaiting their next appearance. The setting is really beautiful with good cinematography to boot; what really impressed me though was the boldness of this film in stating what they believe and not beating around the bush or making any attempt at "sugar coating"! I really recommend that you see it, it gives one pleasant respite from all the gloom in most movies and will inspire one to reach for greater heights in all aspects of life! Enjoy!!