The Movie That Will Change Your View on Life

Most girls love a so called “chick flick”, while guys are just watching the time pass by and hoping the end will come sooner than they expect. This movie is not your predictable chick flick where a girl meets a boy and it’s love at first sight. The movie genre is a mix of drama and family flick with a little romance on the side. This is a great movie to take your family to see that will lift your spirits by the end of the film. With great casting and characters, story line, music, script, and overall feeling, this film will steal your heart away.
This heart wrenching story is based on a young man named Jason (Drew Fuller) who has recently been informed his grandfather, Red,(James Garner) who of late passed away, has allotted him the inheritance. Unlike a common inheritance, this one has to be worked for. Assuming this will come easy just like everything else in his life, Jason is hit with the fact that character is more important than money. He soon learns that life’s trials and those who help you through are what make it meaningful. His assumption that “being a Steven’s is all about money” becomes less true, and soon the meaning of life begins to engulf him.
The cast for this movie is absolutely delightful. Beverly Holloway (casting) could not have chosen anyone better to fit each role. Although selfish and cynical, Jason has a mysterious charm about him that you can’t help but be captivated by. There is a hope that he will change so there is a reason to like him, but this takes time and work. On the other hand, Emily,(Abigail Breslin) has a mind of her own that you can’t help but love. Her smart and quirky comments bring much humor and joy to the film. Her mother, Alexia played by Ali Hillis is a kind natured woman that would sacrifice anything for her daughter. The pure love she has for Emily radiates constantly throughout the film. Bill Cobbs playing Hamilton is another crucial cast and character. It is he that sparks Jason’s interest in “The Ultimate Gift”, and spitefully encourages him to keep going. Each character adds to the film in a way that without one it would not be the same. Team work and congruency is essential for this film, and this cast mastered it.
The characters are what make up the story line. Originating from a book written by Jim Stovall, the script and casting are what helped bring it to life. A magnificent script by Dave Anderson and Cort Langeland aided in giving the book justice so to say. The script is heartwarming and clean, which many families I’m sure appreciate. The script is perfect in keeping suspense and mystery. Some may expect this to be a predictable movie, but the events that occur throughout Jason’s journey through you for a loop. This allows the film to stay interesting and keep the viewer “on the tip of your toes”. The script is one that doesn’t require crude language or profanity to get the point across. The twelve gifts Jason learns, give him something more than money could ever buy. A critical point to this movies success is the script. Through laughing and learning, the script will lure you into the movie.
Music may not be the first thing you think of when remembering this film, but it is crucial to the tone that is sensed. With John Schmidt, BB King, Sara Groves, and many others providing music you can’t go wrong. Each scene has a different quality about it that allows intensity and emotion to step into play. Melodies have a great effect on conveying the particular mood and feeling a director wants the audience to feel. Throughout the movie each song made me either want to dance, cry, or put a blanket in front of my eyes for fear of the possibilities. Music is a necessity in this movie just like it is in our own lives. Without it, this film would not be the same.
Through music, characters, and script comes the overall feeling of this movie, which in my opinion is wonderful. Values that are taught throughout the film are so good for people to become aware of. At one point Mr. Hamilton is speaking to Jason and says,” ..It will get tougher before it gets easier, even if pain is your teacher.” Through this we learn that life will not always be easy, but often time the goals and dreams you have to work for are the most rewarding. The wisdom that Red and Mr. Hamilton share with Jason also teaches to trust those who have more years on them. Life brings experiences which brings wisdom and knowledge. Emily and Alexia both demonstrate that sacrifice can bring true happiness. Later on Jason learns this as well when he literally risks his life for another man. The overall emotion of this film is magnificent.
In short, this film is very well put together. With the help of characters, script, music and emotion this movie captivates audiences of all ages. “The Ultimate Gift” gives a hope of what people can become, and that there is still good in the world. The understanding that life is not about how much you have but what you can give is illuminated throughout each scene. I would suggest anyone who needs encouragement and uplifting to see this film.