Woodlawn (2015) - Movie Review

Jay Peters

"This is what happens when God shows up”... in a Christian film. This is the first Christian film (actually first of any film) I felt compelled enough by to write a review. Simply put, this is one of the best Christian films I have ever seen in terms of production value and most importantly the spiritual content that is boldly displayed. As a Christian filmmaker myself, all to often I have seen films that lack one or the other or often both. This is not the case with Woodlawn.

​Inspired by true events, Woodlawn tells the story of a integration torn high school during the 1970’s in Birmingham, Alabama (or "Bombingham" after some racially driven bombings). The school's football coach Tandy Gerelds (Nic Bishop) not only struggles with a bad season from his team, but also the complete lack of morality caused by the tension between white and black players.

Everything begins to change after the coach receives a strange visit from Hank (Sean Astin), an unimpressive looking man who says he wants to speak to the team about Jesus. Reluctantly, the coach agrees and as a result, almost the entire team gets saved. One of the players, Tony Nathan (Caleb Castille), begins to embrace his God-gifted talent and live out his faith which has dramatic effects on and off the field. I don’t want to give away the rest of the film because I want everyone to go see it. To summarize, a revival is sparked throughout the Alabama town.
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Woodlawn captures the heart of this story through great acting, including Jon Voight as Coach Bryant. Some amazing cinematography during the football scenes 

help to convey the story as well. Beyond that, I highly recommend this movie due to the amazing sense of God seen onscreen, in the sermons, the players' responses and all the lives surrounding the events that took place. One of the repeated lines in the movie is “This is what happens when God shows up”. I believe that is ultimately what we need in every area of life today. I found myself inspired to share the Gospel with more boldness to everyone around me knowing anything is possible when God shows up. Don’t just take my word for it, go see this film and let me know how Woodlawn speaks to you.

Woodlawn was directed by the Erwin brothers, with screenplay written by Quinton Peeples and Jon Erwin. It was produced by Kevin Downes, Provident Films, and Pure Flix Entertainment. For more information, including local showings and the trailer, visit www.woodlawn.com.
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