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All parent reviews for To Save a Life

Age
12
Average rating based on 30 parent reviews:
  • 80% say there are positive messages
  • 47% say there are positive role models
Adult
March 3, 2010
 
Appalling and dangerous
This movie is appallingly bad, a series of afterschool special cliches that are crowded together as an excuse to proselytize for the purportedly redemptive power of Christianity. There were only about 3 other people in the theatre when I saw it and quite frankly I would have walked out halfway through but I wanted to see if it would actually maintain its lack of quality. I was shocked: it actually got worse as the film went on. Most disturbing is the message that young people with dreams should willingly give up their dreams rather than *gasp* considering having an abortion. And of course the promulgation of the lie that even one episode of unprotected sex will lead to pregnancy. Conveniently, the main characters end up not having to give up their dreams thanks to the "miracle" of an open adoption--but that fairy tale ending doesn't come about until after we're hit over the head with the message that NOTHING, bar nothing, is more important than throwing away your future so you can be teenage, unwed parents. This message is irresponsible beyond belief. Overall, I think it's highly disturbing this movie was made, let alone that it found distributors. I'm exceedingly glad it's being pulled from theatre in my city after only 1 week of release.

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Adult
January 23, 2010
 
Perfect in its imperfections
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

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Adult
January 11, 2011
 
The church must stop hiding and confront the culture
First of all, this was an excellent movie that the whole family can enjoy. I would not venture to say that many of the characters are “good role models” despite making better choices toward the end, they do not set an overly great example. It’s ironic that some of you think the film does not invoke the name of Christ enough while others accuse it of overtly proselytizing. The fact of the matter is, “To Save a Life” is the story of a young adult coming to understand who Jesus is, therefore you can’t expect him to accept Jesus then run right out and start preaching. Movies like those are the reason so many people hate Christian movies, they’re not true to life. In response to the previous abortion comments, it is tremendously selfish to say that one should not even take into consideration the life of an unborn child when the child becomes an obstacle to you achieving your goals. The title “To Save a Life” is multi-faceted in this film. Friend to friend, stranger to stranger, Holy God to sinful man, and even parent to child. It is also great that it does show how Christians are human, and therefore imperfect too, further illustrating the truth that Jesus doesn’t demand perfection but accepts the sinner who will turn to Him. Ultimately, in your face reality melded with the forgiveness and hope of Jesus Christ.

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Adult
April 11, 2011
 
Take Responsibilty
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.

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Parent of 17 year old
January 31, 2010
 
Great Conversation Starter
Loved this movie. I'm a parent, and yes, it makes me uncomfortable to see the scenes depicting sex, drinking and drug use. But let's face it, this isn't the only place our kids are going to see these things, and it probably itsn't the first time they will be seeing these things. Middle and high school students are exposed to so much by their classmates. So as parents we squirm a little in our seats, but gain an opportunity to talk to our teens about these things and reinforce our values.

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Adult
September 27, 2010
 
Shallow and not much of a real point...
For a Christian movie, it had better acting than usual. Yet, for a christian movie, it was awfully shallow and not very different from some secular movies. I mean? How many people DON'T already know that they're supposed to love each other and be GOOD? Plus, as the movie shows, even Christians fail at being perfect. So, what's the point? Jesus isn't the point of this movie, that's for sure. And He's the only one that can truly save a life. Seriously, you can act all good and stuff, but if you're not going to tell people about the truth also, you may as well not even be a Christian.

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Adult
January 28, 2010
 
Best Christian Film Yet
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'.

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Parent of 13 year old
November 9, 2010
 
Great movie about consequences of bullying
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.

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Adult
May 20, 2010
 
Good for teens and older
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.

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Parent of 9, 12, and 14 year old
January 23, 2010
 
perfect movie for 8+
I saw the movie and I thought the message was awesome. As the movie depicted teens go through alot and as parents we do not always catch all the signs. I appreciate the work that was done to get this movie out. The message is very needed right now for kids 8 and up. It shows that even though we make bad decisions; God can help us through the circumstances. Jake allowed God to shine through him and touch so many hurting teens. Teaches kids how to lead by example and to be a friend. Loved it!!!!!!!!!!!

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Adult
December 13, 2010
 

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Adult
March 15, 2010
 
I thought it was a waste of time and money
This was an absolutely awful movie. I agree completely with the person who said it was a chain of after-school specials all rolled into one. But unlike this person, I DID walk out halfway through. The worst aspects of the picture included: 1. Obviously pro-Christian agenda and continual emphasis on prosthelytizing not only the high school aged characters, but the audience as well. 2. Bad acting. 3. Lack of originality. 4. Characters who were so inhumane and insensitive that you really can't feel sorry for them when misfortune befalls them. I wish I hadn't wasted my time or money on this. I looked at the ratings online, but didn't read the reviews before I went. I regret that oversight. I had to go home and wash my eyes out afterwards.

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Parent of 3 year old
March 15, 2010
 

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Parent of 18 year old
March 12, 2010
 
Thanks for the help!
"And of course the promulgation of the lie that even one episode of unprotected sex will lead to pregnancy." The above statement is a lie. One episode of unprotected sex will lead to pregnancy. I have friends and family that this happened to. The review containing this statement helped me decide to see "To Save a Life" because statements like the above cannot be allowed to continue. Why do we want to lie to our teenagers? They need to know the truth and be talked to like they have a brain.

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Adult
February 27, 2010
 
Amazing movie!!!
Very nice movie, I had seen a trailer and thought it was a pretty decent movie but it turned out to be better than I'd hoped. A 14 year old came along with us, and he also enjoyed it.

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Adult
February 11, 2010
 
Real stuff Parents and Teens should know about.
I thought this movie was a great visual to parents and friends how might not be aware of the issues teens actually struggle with today. I work with Freshman girls who told me how accurate this movie is, to their lives as High Schoolers. It does go over some topics that might make you squirm in your seat, but it's all real life stuff that our Youth needs help on. The movie is an eye opener. I also thoroughly enjoyed it because it makes it clear that Church isn't perfect, and church isn't the answer. God is the one that will be with you always and never let you down. Going to Church, calling yourself a Christian means nothing if you don't have your heart set right on Jesus Christ.

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Adult
February 5, 2010
 
this is a really good movie this is the only movie that i have cried on. this movie is good for ages 13 and up. this is my favorite movie.

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Adult
February 5, 2010
 
I loved this movie, I saw it for the frist time last weekend. I saw it again and will probably see it again this weekend. This movie is awesome! I can relate to Jake Taylor alot. It has a great message and I felt feeling less stressed and more open to talk about things. This is a great movie! I can't wait till it comes out on DVD!

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Parent of 15 year old
February 4, 2010
 
good for little babies

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Adult
February 3, 2010
 
What a Message, What a Movie!
The movie is incredible, as it deals with multiple issues that especially affect teens. I thought the review from S. Jhoanna Robledo was harsh as this movie has elevated Christian made movies to a whole new level. This shows the good, bad, & the ugly of teen issues, hypocrisy that can seep into "Christian" circles, and powerful role models who are real, and who really care about others. If you are a teen, have interaction with teens, or ever were a teen this movie is for you!

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