Mysterious Ways, It's How God Works
from Transport Pictures
Reviewed by Martha Robinson and Mary Leggewie
Purchase details: Mysterious Ways, It's How God Works -- Feature length movie available on DVD for $19.95. Please support HomeschoolChristian.com by buying this program from our Christian Book Distributors link or Amazon affiliate link. Please consider getting a membership at Netflix or Blockbuster using HomeschoolChristian.com's links to rent this and other movies.
Homeschooling dad Manny Edwards produced, directed, and acted in this new movie about the Harper family whose circumstances throw them into a different life. Buddy, the older son, attends public middle school and is suspended after being disrespectful to an anti-Christian teacher and after posting the Ten Commandments on the bulletin board next to ads for an abortion clinic. On the same day, Jim, the father, loses his job. Mom Brenda brings up the idea of quitting her job to homeschool, but some jolting trials, including Jim being falsely accused of assault, are needed to drive the family to leave almost everything behind to start a new life filled with many more blessings.
A "director's commentary" and "film school" are additional tracks on the DVD. These explain how the movie was made, difficulties that were encountered and how they were overcome, and fundamentals of movie making with encouraging words to those who are interested in making wholesome films.
Martha's Recommendation: Mysterious Ways is a movie that is sure to be popular with homeschooling families and will serve as food-for-thought for those considering homeschooling. The family disagreement that is often present when the homeschooling is considered is shown in a realistic way with all of the objections answered well.
This is a homegrown movie so viewers should not expect slick special effects and other high-budget features. However, the film is nicely done and the acting is good. We particularly enjoyed the performances of the "villain," Lacey Dunhill, and the young deputy. Mysterious Ways does not contain any violence, profanity, nudity, or suggestive themes, so it is suitable for Christian families, but parents should consider if they are ready to address the abortion issue (shown on the bulletin board) with younger viewers.
Inspiring music is played in many sections of the movie. While we enjoyed the music, some of these parts moved a bit slowly.
I highly recommend this movie. Your family will enjoy it and gain some interesting insight into film making. Even better, this film will be a positive example to your family and friends who are wondering why you homeschool. This heartwarming movie will open their eyes to the blessings that your family has gained and that others could experience. Mysterious Ways shows that those who take the risk of stepping forward into the unknown with faith can receive the greatest rewards of all.
Mary's Recommendation: Mysterious Ways was GREAT.
The family disagreement about beginning homeschooling at the start of the movie was very well-done as Martha mentioned above. Nearly every objection I've ever heard was asked and answered very well. Even the negative grandparent was portrayed well--giving new homeschoolers hope if they are dealing with similar family challenges. The fact that the mother had researched the law in her state might help those considering homeschooling to do the same. There is power in knowing the law!
I've found that when trying to describe unschooling moments to others, it's hard to make them understand, but it was obvious in this movie, without preaching, how children can learn from life experiences. There were quite a few humorous scenes throughout the movie.
The principal and the lead sheriff were shown having to enforce rules that they didn't believe in, something I thought was very realistic. It should also help convince viewers that Christian children should be removed from government schools--no amount of reform will change them.
Cameron Martin, who portrayed Lacey, the wayward CPS worker, did a spectacular portrayal as a villain. She was soooo easy to hate! We got a real kick out of how the sheriff and deputy knew the CPS worker was insane, and the kids enjoyed the young deputy bending the rules. It was definitely an "on the edge of your seat" movie!
I think this would be a good promotional movie for homeschooling, but it really isn't for younger kids. My 14-year-old daughter enjoyed it, but I don't think it's a family movie. My 9-year-old son was in my lap for 95% of the movie--he was scared after watching the first 5-10 minutes. As soon as Child Protective Services (CPS) showed up, he was worried. I had to do some explaining that he had nothing to worry about where we live. When the family moved to their new location, the portrayal of the new CPS worker was not accurate, but I felt this poetic license worked well for the story. In reality, a new CPS worker would have been required to interview and inspect the children with an abuse complaint, especially coming from an "authority."
The movie did not offer closed captioning for the hearing-impaired, which we need in our home. The producer, Manny Edwards, said that it may be available in the future on a special edition of the DVD, but that it was cost-prohibitive on their original production. I look forward to seeing more wholesome movies from Transport Pictures in the future.
I heartily agree with Martha--this is a great movie to share with other homeschooling families, those who are considering homeschooling, and those who wonder why you homeschool. It's a "must-have" for any well-stocked homeschool library.
HomeschoolChristian.com resources related to this review:
HomeschoolChristian.com's All About Homeschooling Section
with articles about why we homeschool, government intervention, and getting started.
Review of Homeschooling Heroes, the Struggle and Triumph of Home Schooling in America
Review of Worldwide Guide to Homeschooling
Review of Weapons of Mass Instruction
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