All Saints

This faith-based drama might seem like another example of a "white savior" narrative, but it ultimately shows how the refugees, not just the pastor, save the day through dedication and hard work. Although All Saints changed a few of the original story's details (Spurlock was in publishing before becoming a priest, not a salesman; the couple had a younger daughter; etc.), the main events seem true to life. And director Steve Gomer (a veteran TV director) even uses the real Karen churchgoers to play their on-screen counterparts (with the exception of Lee, who is a famous Taiwanese actor-director-producer). This is definitely a sentimental, feel-good movie that could easily be a Lifetime/Hallmark presentation, except it's a bit short on romance for those networks. As in most religious films, there's an overriding message about the power of faith, prayer, and God.

Northern Exposure fans will be thrilled to see Corbett reunite with Barry Corbin, who (once again) plays a curmudgeon with a secret heart of gold: Forrest, one of the church's few remaining congregants. Forrest is critical of Rev. Michael's plan and believes it will be too hard on the Karen families. As on their old show, Corbett and Corbin's characters butt heads, but they eventually grow fond of each other. Forrest bonds with Ye Win over their shared memories of wars they've faced, and in some ways their friendship comes off as more believably close than Rev. Michael's with either man. Considering the current political/social climate regarding issues related to refugees from non-Western backgrounds, it's inspiring to see a true story about the power of intercultural friendship and teamwork.