End of the Spear

I'm awful at movie reviews. Really. It comes down to, I liked it, or I didn't. Most of the time, I want a backstory before I go in, or I won't like it. Before I tell you this one did it for me or not, lemme give you some backstory of my own.

Today was rainy and gray, and the ride over to the theatre was filled with conversation between Rhonda and I, with an occassional break for the opinions of the younguns in the van with us. A total of 7 us went into the Carmike, with only a few of us knowing about the missionaries that were slayed in the 50s. The teens weren't really interested, but they thought they'd tag along since there were others suffering through it, too. It's rated PG-13, and Plugged in Movie Review gave it a family-friendly rating of 4.5 out of 5, so we thought this age group would be impacted, without being scared. For specific reasons for the grade, just check out that link.


End of the Spear is a Every Tribe production, aka Independant Film. Without giving away any of the plot (as so many reviews do - and I hate that), I'll tell you this was a wonderful story of love, kindness, forgiveness, redemption, and cultures. This has been branded as a Christian's film, and it does have that theme, yet it should appeal to those who are not. Moral values, pacifism, and the purposes of life are featured, and a bridge is formed between two opposing cultures. God is spoken of in real life terms, in native tongues, so the message can be understood by anyone, not just church-goers. There is never any harping - just the true, honest, Christ-like activities of daily life, like tending to the sick, turning the other cheek, loving despite hurt, and loving your enemy.

As for my two cents, this movie was poignant and eye-opening. Sometimes, those of us who are 'churched' forget what a sacrifice is involved in moving to a different (and sometimes hostile) country, especially with a family. The laughs and the tears came readily for me, despite my attempt to withhold them. Take tissue. It is not pretty to wipe tears and snot off your face with your hands.

The teens were bored throughout the first of the movie, but as it progressed, became more and more interested in the progression of events. I think they liked it. Nekkid butts and all.

At the end, there is a bit about the real men involved, and what they bring back from the other's culture (funny bit, did I mention?). And the best part of the film: half of the proceeds will go to help reach other indigenous tribes with the message of Christ.