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A Murder of Innocence
By Renee Longstreet,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Earnest, faith-driven story falls short; some violence.
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A Murder of Innocence
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What's the Story?
In A MURDER OF INNOCENCE, just after the arrival of a new pastor and his family in Sequim, Washington, a well-loved couple is murdered in their home. Pastor Albert (Frank Chiesurin) and Aimee (Rachel MacMillan) Anderson are instrumental in the discovery of the crime, and deeply saddened by it. When Sheriff Tomlin (Xander Steel) investigates, none of the small city's citizens appear to be strong suspects. He's frustrated as no leads are forthcoming. Fear rises among the folks of Sequim, most disturbingly within the Anderson home where Aimee has nightmares and is increasingly distrustful. Her day-to-day life, spent raising her six children and acting as helpmate to her pastor-husband, is affected; she's vulnerable and skittish. Despite the efforts of the pastor and the sheriff, townsfolk are on edge and suspicious of one another. Fear has taken firm hold in Sequim. Albert sees it as a crisis of faith. It's up to him, challenged by his family members as well as his parishioners, to help them find their way back.
Is It Any Good?
For fans of movies filled with heartfelt messages and affirmation of devout Christian beliefs who don't mind a lack of quality and professionalism, this film may well be a satisfying experience. A Murder of Innocence attempts to be a rare combination of spiritual reminder of God's presence and perfection and a suspenseful mystery. Filmed in the Pacific Northwest with local actors and crew, the performances and production are unpolished at best. Part of the problem: The movie is based on an incident that happened in 1971, from a book about that incident that was written in 1984, and transported to current day. Times have changed even in the small city of Sequim, Washington. Making the movie a period piece might have been better. As it stands, the film includes mostly one-dimensional characters, redundant messages about calling upon God to counter fear, and a plot that hopes to heighten drama by bolstering possible suspects, but falls flat instead.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the appeal of faith-based movies like A Murder of Innocence. How do such stories offer comfort and affirmation of beliefs? Are they intended for those who already have such beliefs or for other folks? Explain your answer.
The actual incident upon which this story is based took place almost 50 years ago. How have women's roles changed since that time? Do you think the film, which takes place in modern day, accurately depicts the role of women now?
The town of Sequim, Washington, might be considered a "character" in this movie. In what ways does the small-town Pacific Northwest setting impact the story? How does it help define the characters?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: June 18, 2019
- Cast: Rachel MacMillan , Frank Chiesurin , Xander Steel
- Director: Shawn Justice
- Studio: Vision FIlms
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: Book Characters , Friendship
- Run time: 103 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: June 20, 2023
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