To Save a Life (PG-13, 2010)

I saw this movie last night. I didn't think it was heavy-handed at all - it was honest, brutally honest, despite the negative themes and the happy ending. Its portrayal of high schools and youth groups was spot-on - it shows how even though people can be well-meaning overall, simple neglect on their part can still destroy lives. It's not a corny movie. It's realistic, with a realistic message. Teens deal with the "negative" elements of this movie in real life all the time - I should know, I am one! More than anything else, the movie shows how hiding from the REAL problems around you can be downright destructive. The negative elements are there because they are there in real life, not because they're being glorified. Incidentally, I wouldn't recommend this movie for kids under 11 unless they're exceptionally mature. It has an extremely important message that no one should miss, but it's presented in a mature way... so klicea, I wouldn't recommend taking an 8-year-old to it. :P

To Save A Life is a Good movie for teen entering high school as it gives a fairly realistic overview of the pitfalls they will face. Depression, suicide, bullying, loneliness, sex, drugs, pregnancy, confusion and pain all went to my high school. And yours? The film is a conversation-starter at least and, at best, guide to finding help. "Good" movies, faith films, and family movies can't win because if they show the problems people really face, then they're too worldly. If they suggest or encourage a morality determined by God, they appear to offer pat, unrealistic answers. The characters in the film make mistakes and deal with the consequences. God doesn't appear at the end and make it all better. Roger isn't resurrected and Amy's pregnancy test is still positive. The best part of the film is that character have to face their mistakes, find the answers, and take responsibility. That's a Good movie.

this movie is really good for older mature teens. the book was good also. make's you realize it's not always easy to change your way's.

At the end of this film, I was left with misty eyes. True, it lags some in the middle, but the messages ring true, helped by a very aptly acted lead (Randy Wayne as Jake Taylor). Though some say the end is stereotypical, I found it summed up the whole film beautifully. Watch it. You'll leave wondering what you can do 'to save a life'.

I saw this movie with my church and it really made me think a lot and I enjoyed the feelgood ending that made me smile :)

Suggested MPAA Rating: PG-13 for mature thematic elements involving teen suicide, teen drinking/partying, drug use, disturbing images, sexuality, and language. Great movie, with great messages, but not appropriate for anyone under 14

I'm thinking of having my girl scout troop (12/13 year olds - 7th graders) watch this movie as a group and sent a note to the moms to see if they think it's appropriate. I know my 12 year wouldn't have a problem watching it. I feel middle schoolers are not naive and that knowledge is power. The scene where the main character and his girlfriend are in bed is done tastefully. It is implied, there are no naked bodies. The scene where the gun is used in the school may be a little scary, but it can open up the discussion, "what would you do in this situation". Unfortunately, in this day and age, everyone needs to be aware of the situation around them.

I was a bit hesitant to go and watch this film. I had seen a few other Christian films before and the acting was not impressive, resulting in a big distraction from the actual story. This was not the case in To Save a Life. The acting was not at the same level of movies with A-List actors, but not bad enough to create a distraction. As I already mentioned, because the acting was up to par, I was able to concentrate on the story and what exactly was going on. The story was excellent. I applaud everyone in and involved with the film because of how daring they were with portraying a lifestyle that is so prevalent in today’s society, but never portrayed or talked about by churches. As a child, I was raised going to church every Sunday and Wednesday and I was never told about that kind of lifestyle. I just knew that whatever it was, it was frowned upon. Now that To Save a Life surfaced, I believe that people will now be able to see what that lifestyle is about and the destruction it can cause along with how, if managed correctly, it can be a good way to relax by just hanging out with friends and not worrying about anything. The “relatability” is fantastic. They showcase so many different characters in which anyone can find a person they can relate to. It was a great film, and I will and have suggested it to all my friends and family.

Amazing movie! I know I've put some bad things on here, but this movie brought me to Christ. I have no idea how CSM could give this two stars. This is a wonderful, inspiring, sob-your-eyes-out movie. The book is even better. I strongly recommend this. I cry evert time I see/read it again.