Decision

From the producers of 'Jerusalem Countdown' and the 'Christmas Child', the 2012 movie Decision is a heartwarming and compelling drama narrating a tale of forgiveness, faith, and finding one's path in life. Although a tragic event serves as the backdrop of the plot, the movie manages to weave a captivating tale that balances the darkness with moments of hope and redemption.

The movie stars celebrated contemporary Christian music artist Natalie Grant as Ilene, Michael Rosenbaum as Rand, and country music singer Billy Dean as Jackson. 'Decision' showcases their acting prowess as they portray characters in the middle of significant life crossroads. Their performances elicit both empathy and introspection, while making their characters empathetic and tangible to the audience.

Natalie Grant plays Ilene, a woman struggling to raise her two sons, Jackson and Sheldon, after the sudden death of her fireman husband. Despite the assistance of her supportive father-in-law, Rand (played by Mikey Rosenbaum), Ilene finds herself overwhelmed by the sheer weight of financial instability and single motherhood. With the added burden of grief, Ilene's struggle is palpable and deeply relatable, tugging at the heartstrings of viewers.

Played by Billy Dean, Jackson, the elder of the two sons, is a troubled grappling teenager. Drowning in the sea of grief and the sudden onslaught of new responsibilities, Jackson embarks on a destructive path, spiraling down to dereliction. His character arch acts as a sorrowful reminder of how grief and hardship transform us, sometimes not for the better.

Ilene's father-in-law, Rand, provides a stark contrast to Jackson's turbulence. Having been scarred and hardened by the harsh realities of life he, too, grapples with his own demons. Rand is a man burdened by guilt and past regrets, effectively portrayed by Mikey Rosenbaum. The carefully layered narrative of his character digs deep into the themes of regret and sorrow, making his character an intriguing cog in the movie's plot.

Following these characters through their tumultuous journey, Decision takes the audience through a series of heart wrenching and increasingly desperate situations. The plot intertwines their longings, their hopelessness, their off-kilter family dynamics, and their search for peace and resolution, creating an emotional, captivating experience for the viewer.

Though it wouldn't be inaccurate to call 'Decision' a family drama, the movie is much more. It explores deeper thematic issues such as the nature of faith, the pain of loss, the importance of forgiveness, and the sanctity of family. It effectively weaves the story of a family shattered by tragedy and builds up, brick by brick, their journey towards healing and finding faith in their lives once more.

Under Thomas Makowski's nuanced and sensitive direction, the movie demonstrates the softness of human resilience in the face of enormous hardship. The narrative neither trivializes the complex emotions of the characters nor succumbs to cheap melodrama. Instead, it emphasizes human relatability and avoids the trap of clichéd storytelling.

Admittedly, 'Decision' is a film that requires the audience to confront and contemplate challenging emotional terrain, including death, guilt, and redemption. Yet, instead of despairing and depressing, the script, the performances, and the storyline collectively manage to uplift and inspire. That said, 'Decision' isn't just a film about struggle and despair; it’s also a testament to the endurance of the human spirit and the power of faith and forgiveness.

As a production, the film pairs its riveting story with impressive cinematography. The camera work is unobtrusive and subtle, allowing the powerful performances to take center stage. However, visually, it still manages to capture, with remarkable sensitivity, the beauty of mundane life, the rawness of grief, and the stirring moments of realization and growth.

To conclude, 'Decision' is a rollercoaster journey of emotions that offers no easy answers but prompts viewers to introspect and challenge their own perspectives. It leaves its imprint through the indelible performances of the lead actors and its thoughtful storytelling.