WWJD

As someone who isn't particularly religious per se, the only thing that scares me away from Christian films is their heavy-handedness.  There's not a reason in the world to complain about quality entertainment that celebrates traditional values and inspires people to be their best selves, but all too often that message is delivered with the subtlety of a jackhammer.  Such is the case for the John Schneider vehicle WWJD.

Based on Charles Sheldon's popular novel, In His Steps - What Would Jesus Do?, WWJD takes place in the struggling town of Raymond, California.  Having fallen on hard times, the city's residents have become cynical and wary.  Even the local pastor is questioning his vocation after losing his pregnant wife and son in a car accident.  When a slimy developer slides into town and promises to revitalize Raymond with a flashy new casino, they quickly fall under his spell.  If he can bring revenue and jobs to their city, then he's just the person they want to see.

On the other hand, the residents of Raymond are pret-ty sure they don't want to see the Drifter who's just wandered into town, even if he is played by the lovely John Schneider.  His pleas for employment and assistance are met with apathy and disgust.  How can these people concern themselves with his problems when they've got trouble of their own?  And why should they open their doors and their hearts to a stinky street person?

As it turns out, the Drifter is not as easily dismissed as everyone would like.  Not only does he turn up at Sunday service to remind the parishioners how rude and unhelpful they've been, he promptly collapses on the floor, leaving them to care for his sickly self.  Wracked with guilt, the people of Raymond are shaken by his question: Are you living as Jesus would?

The question "What would Jesus do?" has a transformative effect on the town.  As the people get back in touch with their real values, they soon realize that they have to fight to have the kind of lives (and the kind of city) they believe in.  Chances are this does not include demolishing their church to make way for the casino.

While the messages in WWJD are certainly sound, the film is deliberate and often trite.  Throw in an overly sincere folk singer who won't stop playing his infernal guitar, and pretty soon this movie will make you want to bang your head against the wall.  Though likely to be appreciated by its niche audience, it's unlikely that WWJD will find legs outside the Christian community.

Extra features include the original trailer and a downloadable ebook version of In His Steps by Charles Sheldon.