Prayers can help a film, too

“THE GRACE CARD”

DVD widescreen, 2011, PG-13 for violence and thematic elements

Best extra: “Starting a Grace Awakening: Behind the Scenes”

THIS FAITH BASED story brims over with a refreshing dose of raw talent and a passion to minister throughout the film. Together, these elements create a stellar debut for Graceworks and Calvary Pictures. With help from volunteers who collectively dedicated 15,000 hours to the project, the Memphis-based organizations teamed up with screenwriter Howard A. Klausner (“Space Cowboys”) to tell the story of Mac McDonald (Michael Joiner), a bitter police officer who dislikes minorities and is angry with God after losing his son in an accident. When he is forced to work with Sgt. Sam Wright (Michael Kiggenbottom), an African American police officer and pastor, Mac is forced to work through his anger and their obvious racial differences to rebuild his family relationship and heal his wounds through God’s grace. Academy Award winner Louis Gossett Jr. also stars.

The DVD release displays sharp imagery and impressive cinematography, especially for the team’s first film. Mirroring the visual style of Christian film “Facing the Giants,” “The Grace Card” offers outdoor shots with slightly understated colors that reflect the often dark, thematic elements throughout the movie. Vibrant church images stand in stark contrast to other shots to reflect grace, hope and redemption.

The 102-minute feature film is accompanied by seven DVD extras, including commentary from the filmmakers and cast. “Starting a Grace Awakening: Behind the Scenes” provides in-depth insight about the making of the film from the director, executive producers and cast members, many of whom made their acting debut in the film. The special feature also sheds light on the spiritual foundation necessary for the film. The filmmakers attribute the movie’s success to the spiritual atmosphere on set and the prayers dedicated to the film.

The DVD release also includes deleted scenes, outtakes, a music video and more.

— DeAnne M. Bradley

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