Half of a good film

Sarah's Choice starts well but concludes too simply | Megan Basham

Pure Flix Entertainment

In many ways Sarah's Choice represents the progress Christian production companies are making in producing faith-infused films and the long way they still have to go.

First, the good. I have often wondered where it says that every Christian-made, Christian-targeted film must be populated with former stars of the '70s and '80s. Of course, I rejoice that my preteen heartthrob Mike Seaver grew into a man on fire for the Lord, and I'm proud to call Captain Stubing my brother, but many a movie would have benefitted from their being replaced with lesser-known performers who were more appropriate to the roles. Sarah's Choice avoids this pitfall.

Newcomer Rebecca St. James turns in a subtle and affecting performance as Sarah, a single career woman dealing with an unplanned pregnancy. As her immature boyfriend, Matt, Julian Bailey is equally believable. His portrayal of a guy who believes sports betting and pyramid schemes are his ticket to the big time will be recognizable to any young woman who's spent time on the dating scene. And when Mr. Eight Is Enough himself, Dick Van Patten, does appear, it is in a small and suitable part.