What If...

Ben (Kevin Sorbo) and Wendy (Kristy Swanson) were high school sweethearts. But, alas, they were unevenly yoked. Wendy was a born-again Christian and Ben was more interested in pursuing money. Now, 15 years into the future, Ben is quite a successful investment banker, with a nice-looking fiancé and an uppity attitude. On the day he gets a big promotion, he immediately buys a Mercedes Benz. But, taking it for a test drive, Ben is startled to see all of the lights on the dash go kaput. Baffled, he is nevertheless rescued by a tow truck driver, Mike (John Ratzenburger). As Ben soon finds out, this is no ordinary handyman but an angel in disguise! Mike tells the banker that he needs a serious awakening from his love of money. So, here's the plan. Ben is going to be placed in a "what if" situation. If he had returned to Wendy, as she wanted, they would now be the married couple of two girls. Kerplunk, Ben is "dropped" into his new life. Discovering that he is a pastor who has just been chosen for a job in his hometown, Wendy is getting everyone ready for church. Ben is supposed to give a sermon in less than an hour! Which he does, badly, for there is no way out. Full of resentment, Ben upsets Wendy so much that she suggests he sleep on the couch. The daughters are equally baffled at their uncaring dad. Yet, slowly, Ben realizes he has missed quite a bit of life's better moments. In the end, if given a choice, what would Ben choose? Would it be his material world lifestyle or would he ask God to direct his path? This is an outstanding movie for Christian families and anyone who welcomes a good, clean flick. It has plenty of humor amid its good lessons, making for an entertaining view indeed. Sorbo and Swanson are great as the parents. It might take a bit of an open mind to think of Ratzenburger as an angel, but he does well, too! All other cast members, sets, costumes, photography, script and direction work in unison to create one lovely movie. So, seek and ye shall find, Christian film fans, and go the extra mile to locate other Pure Flix films, too.

Regardless of the critical comments I was very moved by this film. Can it be that such messages are not understood or well received? That is the main theme of this film, namely: "don't tell me anything, it's 'my' life", "I can do what I want", etc.

The usual problem with themes that contain personality changes is their believability. Ben's resistance to such a change struck me as quite realistic. The transition to his desire to change was a hard task the film had to accomplish.

But for all the fathers out there who remember the time they first held their baby son or daughter....that is a life changing experience. So this man took awhile. But Ben was surrounded by 'his' children and wife. Some fathers do take time to adjust to a new life role....ergo a believable transition.

The Christian themed messages were very well delivered. Even Ben's second, post conversion sermon was actually quite good and fit in well with the films' script.

My only criticisms: the few times the camera was bobbing about...come on guys, use a tripod, and there were some syrupy sweet parts that were a bit much. Otherwise when I'm in tears during a film then it's good enough for me.

Family Entertainment. You know, the feel-good, wholesome, honest, "take your child to without risking embarrassment" entertainment that is becoming popular once again. Professional cast (who would think of John Ratzenberger as an angel). Tried and true plot (but then how many truly original story lines have you seen lately?). Humor without being a comedy. Serious without being overbearing. Nice without being sticky-sweet. Christian without being overbearing (disclosure, I am a Christian). No blood, gore, bad language, bare-bodies or other objectionable content.

A solid presentation. Intellectual enough that you go home thinking about the plot, not the special effects or love scene. At the same time, not so complicated that your child cannot follow.

Highly recommended.

Went into to this movie expecting a Hallmark Channel story. Left with a lasting impression and a renewed belief that the power of God is alive and well. Excellent story. Excellent acting. Bravo!

A beautiful story of love, loss and second chances. All of the actors are perfect for their part. Something for the whole family to appreciate. Discover what really matters in life.