Movies showcase morals to the masses

“October Baby,” the latest in a string of faith based movies, follows the story of a girl who miraculously survived her mother’s attempted abortion.

The emergence of similar films will help to further cement a bridge that links Christianity to mainstream culture and will help to influence people with a godly perspective in their daily lives.

Jon Erwin, who wrote the film and co-directed it with his brother Andrew, told the Houston Chronicle that at its heart the film deals with the universal themes including honor, sacrifice and love.

The fact that these themes are explored makes the movie much more accessible to secular audiences. These issues are dealt with by everyone and the only thing that differentiates this film is underneath these broad themes lies a solid foundation in Christianity.

This film comes on the heels of many other films constructed with a clearly Christian message. Most notably these films include: “The Ultimate Gift,” released in 2006 which starred Abigail Breslin, “Facing the Giants,” also released in 2006, “Amazing Grace” released in 2007, and “Fireproof” released in 2008 which starred Kirk Cameron.

Subtlety is the key to the film’s appeal as it provides a message of faith and forgiveness that does not alienate viewers. Morgan Feddes, in her review of the movie for “Christianity Today,” said the movie succeeds in providing understated references to faith in the first two acts of the movie.

The true measure of faith in Hannah, the main character of “October Baby,” is shown in a scene where she talks with a priest about forgiving her mother for trying to get rid of her. Feddes said that having these moments near the end of the movie helps signify their importance.

“October Baby” so far has not garnered as much fame and success as previous faith-based productions did on the big screen. However, the message of the film, and others like it, is one that deserves to be told. Hopefully, “October Baby” will gain viewers as word spreads about the film and its message.

As Feddes succinctly stated, “‘October Baby’s’ greatest strength, however, stems not from its message, its actors or its directors, but the reminder of the incredible power of forgiveness — and the impact it has on so many broken lives.”