77 Chances
By Sandie Angulo Chen,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Sweet faith-based romance deals with grief and sadness.
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77 Chances
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What's the Story?
77 CHANCES is a story of redemption and renewal. Jason (Andrew Cheney) abandoned his dream of becoming a professional photographer so he could live closer to home and help his sister with their dying mother. Since her death, Jason has been stuck in his small hometown, working for his sister's ski and skate shop. One day, he meets another worker, the lovely McKenna (Rachel Hendrix), and they end up making a real connection and going on their first date. With the exception of him not wanting to go to church with her, the night is filled with a palpable chemistry -- until it ends in tragedy. But when he wakes up the next morning, Jason ends up reliving the same day ... 77 times, making slightly different choices without changing the devastating outcome.
Is It Any Good?
Unlike many other faith-based films, this is a well-performed, genuinely entertaining romantic dramedy that's about more than the religious message at its core. While many faith-based movies go all-in with heavy themes and fire-and-brimstone messages, 77 Chances lets its Groundhog Day-conceit work in funny, poignant, human ways that everyone will relate to. Jason's decisions show how kindness and generosity --instead of gruffness and standoffishness -- can make a big difference in how we all connect as people, whether we're interacting at a coffee shop with strangers, in private with siblings, or, in this case, getting to know someone on a date.
A lot of the movie's appeal is in how relaxed the two leads are with each other. There's an easy attraction between Jason and Mac, even on the days when he tries too hard to catch her attention. They bond over shared grief and the promise of a new tomorrow, which of course they don't really get until Jason makes some life-changing decisions. Yes, this is a Christian movie, but even non church-goers might enjoy the movie and the performances in one of the few faith-based stories that doesn't hit audiences over the head with sermonizing platitudes.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how 77 Chances explores the ideas of faith, what-ifs, and the way that decisions can impact your life. Have you ever second-guessed a decision you made?
Do you think someone who doesn't strongly identify as being Christian could appreciate and enjoy this movie? Why or why not? Who's the intended audience for this movie?
For those familiar with the genre, how does this movie compare to other faith-based films you've seen? Do you prefer faith-based films with established actors who may or may not be Christians, or those done by and for church-goers?
Movie Details
- In theaters: August 1, 2015
- On DVD or streaming: September 29, 2015
- Cast: Rachel Hendrix, Erin Bethea, Andrew Cheney
- Director: Tracy Trost
- Studio: EchoLight Studios
- Genre: Romance
- Topics: Brothers and Sisters, Friendship
- Run time: 91 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: September 20, 2019
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