Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Wholesome, filled with value messages, May 21, 2008
A Christian film starring Randy Travis (country western/gospel singer), Nancy Stafford (Matlock) and Candace Cameron Bure (Full House)
Michael Steel (Randy Travis) is a hot commodity in Hollywood. He's been nominated for a Best Actor Academy Award and is riding high. This nomination is a 'big deal' for Michael as he's experienced a great deal of prejudice for his faith as a Christian.
Michael's faith is tested in the days before the Academy Award presentation. His wife has filed for divorce because she feels neglected, the director of his current film demands he shoot a scene that is in opposition to his belief of right and wrong (and one that has been covered in his contract), the female star (Candace Cameron Bure) of the film makes untrue allegations involving her relationship with Michael, and a journalist with an axe to grind reports a story about Michael and a young child.
With his life falling apart, Michael seeks advice and refuge with his sister Annie (Nancy Stafford). Through her words and her actions she helps guide him through the valley of misery he's entered into.
While Michael faces the most important event of his life, he also must make a choice that will change his life forever. It's the fight of all fights with Satan.
The Wager is a 'message' film. It's a story about good vs. evil from the perspective of a follower of Christ. There are no easy answers to the questions asked, and while the story has a satisfactory ending, there is always the unasked question for the viewer: what would you do if?
The Wager isn't a film that is going to be popular in our secular society and that's too bad. It is, however, one that people who want something wholesome with a values message will find appealing.
It's wonderful to have films available for people who don't want what is usually served up in movie theaters.
Armchair Interviews says: Wager is one of those films.
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3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
A safe bet, August 23, 2008
As a compelling mixture of the biblical book of Job and the Sermon on the Mount, The Wager is a good story, with many surprising twists and relevant insights. The novel, written by Bill Myers, is a powerful tale of trials and triumphs. However, when the printed story moved to DVD, some of the intensity was lost in the media conversion. While still a riveting tale, it could have had more impact if the actors showed a greater emotional involvement in the volatile situations.
Michael Steel (Randy Travis) is about to make cinema history as the first Christian actor nominated for Best Actor at the Academy Awards. Yet, God has cast him in a different starring role. When Satan claims that no one can live the Sermon on the Mount in today's society, Michael gets the lead role in this supernatural drama. In the space of ten tension-filled days, his life gets bombarded from every possible angle. From his personal life to his marriage to his career, Michael has to hold on to his faith in the middle of a furious spiritual battle.
Fans of Randy Travis will enjoy seeing this singer in an acting role. Also of interest was the character, Cassandra, played by Candace Cameron Bure of "Full House" fame. Her role of seductress stayed within the boundaries of good taste and allowed viewers to understand the temptation without having it splashed across the screen. And that's where the movie shines. Tastefully produced and staying true to the theme of the novel, this film has the potential to present a life dedicated to the cause of the Christ regardless of the casualties the world may throw.
As a contemporary parable with a purpose, The Wager is a safe bet.
Joyce Handzo (courtesy In the Library Reviews)
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6 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
The Wager, May 16, 2008
Randy Travis plays Michael Steele, an Oscar nominated movie star with some personal problems. He doesn't get along with the director of the movie he's working on, his wife has just handed him divorce papers, and soon, another scandal hits him, shattering his image.
Based on the a book by Bill Myers, "The Wager" is a Christian themed film, although this theme is not as overt as in some other Christian movies. Because of this, it may appeal to a wider non-Christian audience but may also disappoint some Christian viewers expecting a clear evangelical message. The story itself is quite ordinary. It's not bad but also not very inspired or interesting.
"The Wager" is a watchable movie and a decent way to kill 80 minutes but it's not great or worth spending a lot of money on.
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