Left Behind

We've all seen disaster films and inspirational films as well, but have you seen a film that is both disaster and inspirational? Interestingly, we have this combination in the form of "Left Behind".

One of the most important events in the history of mankind is happening right now. In the blink of an eye, the biblical Rapture, or to be caught up, strikes the world. Millions of people disappear without a trace. All that remains are their clothes and belongings, and in an instant, terror, chaos and pandemonium spread around the world. The vanishings cause unmanned vehicles to crash and burn. Planes fall from the sky. Emergency forces everywhere are devastated. Gridlock, riots and lootings overrun the cities. There is no one to help or provide answers. In a moment, the entire planet is plunged into darkness.
This story centers on Ray Steele (Nicolas Cage), a commercial pilot who, on his birthday, decides to pull an extra shift and do a flight only to end up leaving his daughter, Chloe (Cassi Thomson), coming to surprise him, at the airport. While she's there she ends up meeting well known investigative reporter, Buck Williams (Chad Michael Murray) whom happens to be booked on her dad's flight. Later, while Chloe and her young brother Raymie (Major Dodson) are at the mall, she goes to hug him and he suddenly vanishes. Chaos ensues from this point leaving all to wonder what in the world is going on.

Others to round out the cast are Lea Thompson as Irene Steele, Ray's wife, Nicky Whelan as Hattie Durham, a flight attendant, Gary Grubbs as Dennis, Martin Klebba as Melvin Weir, Jordan Sparks as Shasta Carvell, Stephanie Honore as Kimmy, another flight attendant, Quinton Aaron as Simon, Alec Rayme as Hassid, Han Soto as Edwin. Lance E. Nichols as Pastor Bruce Barnes and Kamryn Johnson as Katie.

Believe it or not, this film was directed by a stunt coordinator--Vic Armstrong ("Army of One" '93). Whether it be doing stunts or coordinator, he has been involved in 117 films. Wow! So, how does this make one a director? Being involved in coordinating stunts and working along side of one director after another will definitely rub off, especially if one is interested in soaking up as much knowledge as possible. This was written by Paul Lalonde and John Patus based on the novel by Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye. These guys basically wrote a novel and script using biblical scripture as its base source. The film uses the scripture: Mark 13:32 (But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.) There are others scriptures as well, but suffice it to say, these guys are definitely driving home a point. It is an effective story giving you a glimpse of what happens to those that are left behind, and allowing us to meditate over this event.

As both an inspirational and disaster film, this gives all something to gnaw on. With this event apparently coming soon, should those who definitely don't know where they stand with the Lord turn and change or do they, too, want to be left behind. Think about it.

Out of 4 Stars: 3                               Rated: PG-13                              110mins.