New from the Kendrick Brothers (the group that gave us Fireproof), and releasing today, I had the opportunity to watch Lifemark, starring Kirk Cameron. Based on the true story of David Scotton, and the documentary “I lived on Parker Avenue”, we are taken along on the journey to meet David’s birth parents.
Given up for adoption by his 18yr. old mother and 17yr. old father, David has some pretty special parents. On his 18thbirthday, they give him a round trip ticket for Amtrack to anywhere in the US and let him know that his birth mom is willing to meet – if he wants to. David struggles to know what to do, when his father reminds him that at 8 years old, he wanted to meet her to say “Thank you”.
David’s best friend, a budding cinematographer, travels with him through the whole journey capturing every moment. That moment became the short film “I lived on Parker Street”.
The movie is quite neat – no conflicts, no mixed emotions, no one behaving badly. Just as you would expect a good Christian movie to do. It doesn’t feel like those cheesy “church” movies of years past and is quite well done. It is though, definitely an extended presentation on the real and human side of the abortion issue. I appreciated hearing David’s birthmom talk about the experience as she made her decisions to walk in – and out – of the abortion clinic.
I would recommend this showing as an event for churches, with opportunities for discussion and support, if needed. It’s a hot button issue right now and I could see strong reactions to issues raised. Screening provided by Graf-Martin Communications.
Joyfully Yours 