Michael Landon Jr. directs this period drama set in 1850s Appalachia and concerning a young girl who carries a crushing burden. Ten-year-old Cadi Forbes' (Liana Liberato) sister has died as the result of a tragic accident, and now the surviving sibling can't help feeling somewhat responsible for her sister's untimely death. Desperate to shake the guilt she feels and absolve her dearly departed kin from her Earthly sins, Cadi seeks out the assistance of the one person rumored to have the power of
achieving both goals -- the mysterious Sin Eater (Peter Wingfield). In the midst of her redemptive quest, however, young Cadi uncovers a malevolent secret that threatens to destroy her family and divide her tightknit community. Only after discovering the truth about Jesus Christ and the human condition does Cadi realize that there is only one man capable of providing absolution of sin, and the word of that man can only be found in the Holy Bible. Henry Thomas and Louise Fletcher star in a feature adaptation of the novel by best-selling Christian author Francine Rivers. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
It has the same dramatic flatness of Love's Abiding Joy, which was made by the same filmmakers. Frankly, these folks are more suited to the Hallmark Channel.
Unfortunately for God-fearing youths in desperate need of counseling on the horrors of sin-eating, [Cadi's] spiritual awakening will likely put audiences to sleep.
The Last Sin Eater is close to nature and boasts many of the elements we expect from solid family entertainment, albeit with tragic overtones that keep the story grounded in a rich emotional context.
Folks wanting to hear the usual New Testament message will be pleased; others may feel that the tension dissolves in homilies and wish the main character weren't led around by a blonde-haired little angel in a white dress.
A strong story is hindered here by on-the-nose dialogue and melodramatic delivery that makes it seem more like a pulpit-pounding sermon than a slyly subtle parable.
Fox Family Films has nothing but great films and this is another one, Great for ages 12-99. Ranks up there with the movie a Night with the King. You will not be sorry you get this one
February 10, 2008
Bruce Bruce
Super Reviewer
The story was so great! Who needs a scary old Sin Eater when you have Jesus? Much of the acting left a lot to be desired, but it was cool to see little Henry Thomas from E.T....not so little anymore and a good actor!
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