Following a personal tragedy, a disheartened husband and father (Sam Worthington) travels to an isolated cabin in Oregon to confront the Creator. Radha Mitchell portrays his wife, while Graham Greene appears later in the film. Based on a novel from ten years prior, "The Shack" (2017) is a drama/fantasy reminiscent of the well-regarded “Field of Dreams,” but centered around grappling with God—which, as the Hebrew i…

Even though I don’t subscribe to any religious beliefs, I ended up seeing this film. And honestly, I almost immediately felt like I'd squandered my time. But not completely, and let me explain why. Just so we are clear: I haven’t read the book; anything I say is about the movie alone. Please don't bring up the novel—this isn't a review of it. From an artistic standpoint, this film feels rather empty for so…

If readily accepting forgiveness means this is how things work, then that’s an invitation into a world of crime! This film adapts a novel and incorporates religious themes; it carries a message, but I'm concerned about whether that message is appropriate for our current times. The way the events unfolded seemed to promote criminal behavior in reality. While one could offer philosophical or moral observations, thos…

The film possessed a striking beauty, eliciting laughter and tears from me. Those viewers who hold religious beliefs or grapple with questions about spirituality should consider seeing it; I suspect it might strengthen their convictions.