This is an effective production considering the limited resources used to bring the second book in the popular series to the screen. Following the disappearance of millions worldwide, Gordon Currie takes on the role of U.N. president and becomes a figurehead for a shaken planet. In Chicago, a small group who recognize him as the Antichrist unite as “Tribulation Force,” striving to rescue as many people as possible. This team includes a well-known reporter (Kirk Cameron), an experienced pilot (Brad Johnson), his daughter (Janaya Stephens), and their church’s pastor (Clarence Gilyard Jr.). Released in 2002, "Left Behind II: Tribulation Force" is a continuation of “Left Behind” from 2000, featuring the same cast. A remake with a larger budget and a shortened plot appeared in 2014. The narrative draws on biblical accounts detailing events leading up to the end of times. Having studied eschatology, I hold the belief that the "Rapture" will occur before tribulation, supported by passages such as 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and Luke 17:24,34-35. Regardless of one's religious beliefs, this series offers an engaging story—a “What if the Rapture were real?” mystery/drama/thriller. I don’t subscribe to the idea of time-traveling androids, but that hasn’t stopped me from enjoying the Terminator movies. With a budget slightly less than its predecessor ($3.8 million), this film presents a more streamlined story and allows for convincing performances in demanding roles. Having read the book, I questioned how it could translate to an engaging movie because of its heavier dramatic tone; there are fewer thrills until near the end, not to mention a significant romantic storyline. The writers did well to remove unnecessary elements and incorporate some effectively presented religious themes that don’t feel forced. The book's apocalyptic conclusion was understandably left out, as it would have added considerable time and expense to the production. It seems the filmmakers found a suitable point at which to conclude the story. Filmed in Toronto, I wondered how they would recreate Jerusalem for the concluding scenes, but the studio sets were remarkably well done, especially given the film’s low budget. The movie has a running time of 1 hour and 34 minutes. Additional cast members include Krista Bridges as the journalist's assistant and Chelsea Noble (Cameron’s wife) portraying a flight attendant employed by the Antichrist. GRADE: B

Source on TMDB