Wow. What movie did YOU guys see?

Because I simply can't understand so much negativity towards this movie. I thought it was absolutely wonderful. And no, guess what, I'm not a big Christian. I hate preachy movies. This one was not even close to being that! Certainly there are spiritual aspects to it, but nothing that comes out and hits you over the head with the Bible or tries to ram Christianity down your throat. Maybe you want the typical Hollywood blow-'em-up and show lots of blood and gore? Not everyone thinks those type of movies are watchable. Give me a good character study anyday, rather than mindless action.

Personally, I thought all of the acting was exemplary. Malcolm McDowell oozed menace and evil, and yet was thorougly believable as someone who could seduce young Renny into his web. Hilarie Burton was perfect in the role of Jo - a pretty young woman who helped bring the wayward Renny toward a better understanding of who he truly was. And Chuck Carrington took my breath away with all the nuances he added to the character, the growth he was able to showcase in a way that not every actor can (not to mention that he's very easy on the eyes!). Pat Hingle and Nicholas Pryor added a great deal in their scenes as well. And all the others were very well cast and contributed to the film beautifully.

Personally, my only negative thought had to do with the beginning, which I did believe was not exactly very well acted and a bit overdone. Perhaps others saw that too, and it colored their reactions toward the rest of the film. I don't know how else to explain people trashing a fine little movie that does not pretend to be more than it is.