Last year, the faith-based film, “October Baby” opened in theaters with little fanfare. The film surprised a lot of people as it did incredibly well for a Christian film and given the unpopular topic of abortion to boot. Why did it do so good? Because it had such a good message? No. Don’t misunderstand, the film did indeed have a good message, but it was so much more than that. It was a good story told by good actors. This year, go see “Grace Unplugged” not because it has a good message, but because it is a good film. Period.
James Denton, from “Desperate Housewives” fame, stars as Johnny Trey, former one-hit-wonder rock star turned worship pastor. His 18-year-old daughter, Grace, ( AJ Michalka), wants to follow in his footsteps in the limelight and is given the chance when Johnny’s old manager, Mossy (Kevin Pollak), comes for a visit. Because of Johnny’s own struggles with drugs, alcohol and everything else while on tour when he was younger, he forbids Grace from living her dream. But Grace is 18 now and she can do what she wants. Let the fights begin.
“Grace Unplugged” not only shows and tells a realistic story of the battles and love between a father and daughter, but also a realistic portrayal of a broken Christian family. Michalka not only has a beautiful voice, but she also has some acting chops. Some will be surprised to know that Denton can sing too. The two have some intense scenes together.
The biggest surprise of the film is Shawnee Smith who plays Michelle, Grace’s mother. A far cry from her days of TV’s “Becker” and the horror franchise of “Saw,” this is her first real “mature” role and she is incredible in it.
Also starring in “Grace” is Michael Welch (“The Twilight Saga”) and Pia Toscano (“American Idol’s” 10th season.) The film also features Christian singer Jamie Grace in her first acting role and brief cameo of Chris Tomlin playing himself.
Director/Writer Brad Silverman doesn’t try to get too “cute” with the scenes and lets the actors do what they do best. That isn’t to say that there aren’t a few “cheesy” parts, but they are few and far between and don’t involve the main actors. The overall story feels real with no “good” guys or “bad” guys here. Just human Christians trying to do the best they can but still make mistakes. Nothing is sugarcoated or forced.
The film is appropriate for the whole family and while not a musical, the film does feature some great music that is bound to have you humming the tunes on the way home.
