Their faith became their freedom.
Based on a true story. In 1735, Barbara and Regina Leninger are separated from their family and each other by a tribe of indians. As adults, with the help of two other captives, Barbara tries to escape with God's help.
The film carries some solid production values. The cinematography is good, with some terrific views of the American wilderness and countryside. Some of the acting is great, with Kelly Greyson and Natalie Racoosin doing a nice job with sincerity and emotion as the character Barbara. Other solid actors include Victoria Emmens and Joanie Stewart. Tony Wade plays a menacing villain (of sorts). Also, George Washington and Benjamin Franklin's actors (Barry K. Bedwell and Josh Murray) do a good job. (I did have to Wikipedia some of these names).
The film's main message is that God will never leave you or forsake you in any situation, which is inspiring enough. But there's also some strong examples on family, bravery, and love. William Ross' music score is lovely. Joni Eareckson Tada's version of the song "Alone Yet Not Alone" is well-made, beautiful, and very memorable. (Tada's performance is even more impressive and inspiring, given what she has gone through). The level of suspense put in the screenplay is interesting enough that it keeps me at the edge of my seat.
On the downside, some of the acting and writing isn't top-rate. Some of the minor roles don't convince me as well as others. But, given the fact it is an independent film, a lot of these problems can be forgiven. Some scenes are hard to watch, as some characters do die.
Not surprisingly, when I first heard of Alone Yet Not Alone, it was when it was surprisingly nominated for an Oscar for its song. And when I heard of the controversy regarding the song's surprising rescinding, I immediately was disappointed along with everyone else as to why this happened. Because the song is more than worthy of a nomination (it may not have beaten "Let it Go" from Frozen, but it still deserved it).
Me and my grandmother had anticipated this movie for a while because of the attention it was getting, as well as the strong streak of faith-based movies that have been appearing in theaters this year. And by the time we came out of the theater, we were in disbelief that the events we saw were true. It gave me a whole new perspective on the French and Indian War, as well as how sometimes opposite sides had different intentions.
That being said, the movie itself is both inspiring and entertaining. Pushing aside the sad scenes the film carries, it has a Little House on the Prairie-like feel. Its not high-quality entertainment by all means, but its' intriguing enough to keep me watching and anticipating what will happen next.
There's also a strong message at the heart of the film and its' title. The film lets us know that in whatever trial, tribulation, and threatening situation we go through, God will never leave us or forsake us. One character, in an emotional moment, remained very brave despite her untimely death coming, forgiving her enemies and keeping her Heaven-bound fate in mind. But it doesn't just apply there, it also applies in God protecting us whatever paths we travel down in life. Whenever we feel shut out, sad, scared, or alone, God is still with us.
Alone Yet Not Alone isn't perfect, but its' God-honoring, exquisite tone and inspiring message make it a moving film that is not to be missed.
Score: 8.2/10
Content Problems Families Should Be Aware Of
Language: None
Adult Content: The closest we ever see to anything offensive are two women taking a bath (with petticoats on).
Violence: A few battle scenes show Indians attack and kill many (bloodshed is kept to a minimum). Barbara and Regina's father and brother are killed. A bear breaks someone's leg. Scalps are seen hanging and being given out (not real). Kids are threatened and nearly killed. Some characters' implied deaths and some other thematic material may be too intense or saddening.
Alcohol/Drugs: None.
Other: Some major characters' deaths may upset younger viewers.
