17 reviews
Horrible writing, acting, directing
I don't write reviews (this is my first!), but I feel compelled because the obviously shill reviews for this movie convinced our family to waste our time to watch this movie. We enjoy faith-based movies - have seen some really good ones (War Room, Love Comes Softly series, Facing The Giants, Flywheel, God's Not Dead series, Hoovey, The Grace Card, To Save A Life, The Secret's of Jonathan Sperry, Believe Me, A Matter of Faith, to name just a few). We've also seen some really bad ones, but this may be the worst!
The acting is painful and cringe-worthy. The writing and directing just awkward and disjointed. The "Christian" lines inserted in this movie make it seem like an attempt to "Christianize" a film to sell to Christians! Our family agreed - watching a movie like this gave us an appreciation for the art of making a watchable movie, let alone a good or great movie.
Most of all, we feel cheated by whomever wrote all these "outstanding" reviews, and wasted our time on this movie. "Outstanding" compared to what?! We can account for different tastes in movie appreciation and reviews, but this is clearly not even close to an "outstanding" movie, and in fact - compared to the films listed above - not even passable. If this even was an earnest attempt at a Christian film (and that is in great doubt), the phoniness of acting, lines, plot guarantees delivering nothing "moving" about this film. The Spirit definitely "passed over" this one!
The acting is painful and cringe-worthy. The writing and directing just awkward and disjointed. The "Christian" lines inserted in this movie make it seem like an attempt to "Christianize" a film to sell to Christians! Our family agreed - watching a movie like this gave us an appreciation for the art of making a watchable movie, let alone a good or great movie.
Most of all, we feel cheated by whomever wrote all these "outstanding" reviews, and wasted our time on this movie. "Outstanding" compared to what?! We can account for different tastes in movie appreciation and reviews, but this is clearly not even close to an "outstanding" movie, and in fact - compared to the films listed above - not even passable. If this even was an earnest attempt at a Christian film (and that is in great doubt), the phoniness of acting, lines, plot guarantees delivering nothing "moving" about this film. The Spirit definitely "passed over" this one!
Gods country is a Wonderful film full of inspiration.
A Christian version of You Can't Take It With You
I'll say this for God's Country, it takes a certain amount of chutzpah to make as blatant an anti-feminist film as this one in this day and age. But I get the feeling that Jenn Gotzon wouldn't mind having our current president in the White House if it was for a good cause like spreading the faith.
When we first meet Gotzon she's a hard driving banking and real estate executive who has an assignment from boss Daniel Hugh-Kelly. Get Michael Toland off a piece of property he owns and owes on so that the brothers Yakamoto brothers can build a casino. Who needs the Christian camp that Toland has there now.
I hope a lot of you recognize the plot of You Can't Take It With You because if you've seen the Kaufman&Hart classic than you know exactly how it goes. Her business and banking skills will now go to work for the Lord and she's got a man now in Toland's son Gib Gerard which is as things should be.
Actually in real life how this would have gone is this property would be owned by one of those televangelists and if it needed to be moved his facility would be so moved with a sweet offer that would leave all parties satisfied.
Kaufman&Hart would have much to say here and would say it with far more wit than this film has.
When we first meet Gotzon she's a hard driving banking and real estate executive who has an assignment from boss Daniel Hugh-Kelly. Get Michael Toland off a piece of property he owns and owes on so that the brothers Yakamoto brothers can build a casino. Who needs the Christian camp that Toland has there now.
I hope a lot of you recognize the plot of You Can't Take It With You because if you've seen the Kaufman&Hart classic than you know exactly how it goes. Her business and banking skills will now go to work for the Lord and she's got a man now in Toland's son Gib Gerard which is as things should be.
Actually in real life how this would have gone is this property would be owned by one of those televangelists and if it needed to be moved his facility would be so moved with a sweet offer that would leave all parties satisfied.
Kaufman&Hart would have much to say here and would say it with far more wit than this film has.
- bkoganbing
- Feb 18, 2017
- Permalink
Oy!
Apart from reasonable PD, this movie has a ridiculous plot.., and Meghan's representation of the character fails on every count to portray a business-like reality. Likewise the camp leader comes off more like a kidnapper than a Christian.
Overall, it's uncomfortable to watch.
Overall, it's uncomfortable to watch.
- scarletpumpernickel
- Mar 15, 2022
- Permalink
Solid Family Film
- richard_clarke_larsen
- May 5, 2013
- Permalink
Solid Film with Great Message
- sycamorematt
- Apr 30, 2013
- Permalink
God's Country is a wonderful film of faith and inspiration
If you're looking for a great evening of quality family entertainment you need look no further than 'God's Country". It is inspirational and moving - a movie that you will want to watch many times. Chris Armstrong's (in his first directing venture) does an exceptional job, especially with the breath-taking scenery. I look forward to seeing more of his work in the future. And the cast is superb. Jenn Gotzon really shines in this film and shows why she was voted Best Actress at both the Global Art Film Festival and the 168 Film Festival. Her portrayal of Meghan Doherty as a money obsessed worldly bank executive transformed by love and the power of God is brilliant and inspiring. The supporting cast is excellent as well - Gib Gerard (Jake Graham), Michael Toland (Eden Graham), and Daniel Hugh Kelly (Mr.Whittaker). Does Daniel Hugh Kelly ever age? Kelvin Brown's infectious humor as Lenny and Stephanie Barne's innocent (yet perky) portrayal of Geri are noteworthy as well.
But the story of God's Country also speaks to something bigger. It demonstrates the contrast between materialism and spirituality. What the human heart seeks will not be found in riches, jewelery, or Ferrari's (as Meghan discovered) but in the simple truth of God's love for us and our love for one another through community. The people of "God's Country" had found this truth and their acceptance of Meghan in love transforms her. We should seek to emulate this in our own lives.
The Apostle Paul wrote 2,000 years ago "...brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Those words are still relevant today and "God's Country" exceeds each one of those standards. I know you will be blessed by this wonderful film as I was.
But the story of God's Country also speaks to something bigger. It demonstrates the contrast between materialism and spirituality. What the human heart seeks will not be found in riches, jewelery, or Ferrari's (as Meghan discovered) but in the simple truth of God's love for us and our love for one another through community. The people of "God's Country" had found this truth and their acceptance of Meghan in love transforms her. We should seek to emulate this in our own lives.
The Apostle Paul wrote 2,000 years ago "...brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Those words are still relevant today and "God's Country" exceeds each one of those standards. I know you will be blessed by this wonderful film as I was.
God vs. Brazen Capitalism
Gods Country
This was a great movie to watch talks about a place away from the city tells about how a person who has a Christian camp and is in debt. And helps us know God is there 24/7. And the owner makes a deal with the investment company for six days and the woman life changes. Has idea to save the camp .
- jaybernieschoep
- Mar 23, 2022
- Permalink
Excellent family film
Looking for an uplifting, family-friendly film with a great lesson we can all learn from? Then look no further than God's Country! Director, Chris Armstrong, has truly "Hit it out of the Park" in his film directorial debut here! Chris' eye for capturing true emotion within any given moment is incredible! The locations and cinematography are just amazing and just plain beautiful to look at and enjoy! The entire cast featured are very talented and engaging throughout. Truly, the standout performance for me and our family, was by Jenn Gotzon! She has a strong, incredibly natural and relatable delivery throughout! It is very emotionally rewarding to see her character transition from being a highly self-focused woman to one who then finds the greatest value in putting other's needs before her own. God's Country is a breath of fresh air, reminding us that independent Christian films can be made with superior excellence and they certainly have incredibly inspiring stories to tell. God's Country is a must see film and one that every person should definitely have as a integral part of their personal family collection!
- alrienberg
- Jun 27, 2013
- Permalink
Great Movie!
This family friendly film was a delight. It kept my interest all the way through. It has a good blend of humor and message. The desert was as much a part of the movie as the actors. Jenn Gotzon did a great job portraying an ambitious, money and power hungry broker. The directing by Chris Armstrong was excellent. He was able to take a predictable story and turn it into something that captures your interest throughout the entire movie. He expertly guided the filmography. The scenes of the desert become an integral part of the story. I thoroughly enjoyed watching this film. I would highly recommend this movie for a family movie night.
- les-arm-lea
- May 3, 2013
- Permalink
A family movie with tons of heart
If you're looking for a movie with lots action, complex plot and characters - you will likely be disappointed here.
But, if you're in the mood for a movie that challenges today's self centered money motivated secular values - then you're in luck!
Fans of the beautiful and talented Jenn Gotzon won't be disappointed either. She literally shines in this film. Those who know her won't be surprised by this in the least. (It's almost as if Angels surround her throughout the film.)
Technically, there are some rough edges, but over all Chris Armstrong does a masterful job at helming his wife's star turn. A combination that completely works for both Gotzon and Armstrong here.
Personally, I wished there was more to the script itself to challenge the viewer and some of the casting seems a little awkward, but industry stalwarts Daniel Hugh Kelly, Gib Gerard and Michael Toland all turn in fine performances.
Two more bright spots in the cast are Kevin Brown and Stephanie Barnes.
Barnes seems to carry the spirit of the picture with her on screen and her scenes with Gotzon work especially well and help to beef up some of the necessary story conflict that add so much to a satisfying resolution.
I'm a softy for movies with a lot of heart and I don't mind saying that I kept my hankie busy for the last quarter of the film.
But, if you're in the mood for a movie that challenges today's self centered money motivated secular values - then you're in luck!
Fans of the beautiful and talented Jenn Gotzon won't be disappointed either. She literally shines in this film. Those who know her won't be surprised by this in the least. (It's almost as if Angels surround her throughout the film.)
Technically, there are some rough edges, but over all Chris Armstrong does a masterful job at helming his wife's star turn. A combination that completely works for both Gotzon and Armstrong here.
Personally, I wished there was more to the script itself to challenge the viewer and some of the casting seems a little awkward, but industry stalwarts Daniel Hugh Kelly, Gib Gerard and Michael Toland all turn in fine performances.
Two more bright spots in the cast are Kevin Brown and Stephanie Barnes.
Barnes seems to carry the spirit of the picture with her on screen and her scenes with Gotzon work especially well and help to beef up some of the necessary story conflict that add so much to a satisfying resolution.
I'm a softy for movies with a lot of heart and I don't mind saying that I kept my hankie busy for the last quarter of the film.
Workaholics Will Hate This Film
This film is a fish out of water tale wherein a young woman, obsessed with work goes to a Christian camp to buy their land for a Casino.
As part of the dealer, she must stay at the camp for several days.
The featured review here which attempts to make this film political is absurd. There's not an oz of politics in the film(which is another thing which makes this film so beautiful.
It doesn't push any propaganda. Unlike most films made this days. This is another thing which makes the film so beautiful.
If you love change of heart stories, film's appropriate for the entire family, and you don't like being preached at, this is a great film for you!
As part of the dealer, she must stay at the camp for several days.
The featured review here which attempts to make this film political is absurd. There's not an oz of politics in the film(which is another thing which makes this film so beautiful.
It doesn't push any propaganda. Unlike most films made this days. This is another thing which makes the film so beautiful.
If you love change of heart stories, film's appropriate for the entire family, and you don't like being preached at, this is a great film for you!
Bravo!
Well crafted and fun to watch
While a lot of faith-based films are truly cringe-worthy to watch, Director Chris Armstrong has done an amazing job elevating this film far above its budget and source material. The direction, editing, sound and cinematography are all exceptional. Strong performances all around from the excellent ensemble cast but it is Jenn Gotzen who shines as Meghan Doherty, an ambitious real estate executive sent to oversee the foreclosure of "God's Country." She arrives at the Christian retreat, tucked away in the Mohave Desert, with the intent to seal the deal and move on but the owner refuses to sign her offer sheet until she has experienced life on the retreat. What follows is a great, fun fish-out-of-water story the entire family can enjoy as Meghan Doherty tries to navigate her way through six days in God's Country. A well-crafted movie that is fun to watch.
Excellent Life Changing movie
Jenn Gotzon and the cast did an amazing job of bringing forward what is truly important in our short time on this earth...Its about honoring God's glory, removing ourselves from the worship of worldly possessions and re-aligning our lives.
The crew have their heads focused on helping others and even created a ministry to help aspiring actors...truly inspiring!
A stand out movie to watch with family who think they "have it all" when they actually have only material items and not a true understanding of Love/Appreciation/Guidance.
Well done Jenn and crew!!
The crew have their heads focused on helping others and even created a ministry to help aspiring actors...truly inspiring!
A stand out movie to watch with family who think they "have it all" when they actually have only material items and not a true understanding of Love/Appreciation/Guidance.
Well done Jenn and crew!!
- gdeller170
- Sep 7, 2013
- Permalink
5.0 out of 5 stars God's Country, an Excellent Film of Inspiration
5.0 out of 5 stars God's Country, an Excellent Film of Inspiration, April 21, 2013 By Dr. Fred "Dr. Fred" (Salem, VA) - One of the things that plagues independently made films of faith is that without big studio backing there will be problems with such things as lighting, editing, music and sadly even acting. There is no such problem with this film, it is positively brilliant and I have had the privilege of reviewing faith based and family films for years. This is a film that should have been featured in theaters as there is a wide open expanse of beauty that harks back to the great old days of the John Ford epics. Of course this is not a Western though it takes place in Western style territory. There are also scenes in the metropolis of LA and here is one of the areas the film shines in. You are taken back and forth from city to country, intercutting between scenes in a style often over looked in films today. Certainly the director Chris Armstrong, who put this together, deserves credit for knowing his craft. However, I have to single out one element in particular. Though the over all cast is good, this is a Jenn Gotzon film and were this theatrical we would be talking Oscar. Jenn Gotzon plays a top notch business woman who knows the art of the deal and is at the pinnacle of the ladder of success. Her assignment is to talk a preacher and his family into giving up his land, his dream, which is used as a campo for young people. The preacher challenges Jenn to wait six days and during this time... well I don't want to be a spoiler. I will just say that seldom has an actress had to make herself believable in so many settings and she pulls it off in the style of the great actresses during Hollywood's Golden Age. Of course it is a faith based film and you will see the hand of God throughout the story. The film is a miracle itself and I am thankful it was shown in a special preview screening. I will say I am not alone in my opinion as the film drew the audience in a way I have seldom heard of and there was applause at the end.
- s-d-i-entertainment-pr
- Apr 21, 2013
- Permalink