Movie Review on “Welcome to Paradise”

I’d like to review a precious Christian movie titled, “Welcome to Paradise.”  It came out in 2007.

This movie stars Crystal Bernard (she played in an old 1990’s sitcom—“Wings”, plus in more recent movies such as “Looking for Mrs. Claus” Parts#1 and 2), which were cute Christmas movies on Hallmark.  Crystal plays the main character Pastor Debbie Laramie. Debbie is a God-fearing and sweet, loving female preacher who is transferred to a small church in a country town named Paradise, Texas. She has a teenage son, Hayden, who is not happy about moving. A trouble-maker, the town’s ex-preacher’s son, thinks Hayden is a fun target to pick on. Debbie is a very upbeat kind of gal and usually does things in her own special way no matter what other people think of her.  The church people don’t accept her right away; except for a few people of the congregation that you can tell are people who sincerely love the Lord.  A chain of catastrophic events happen which leaves the people without a church.  With help from Pastor Debbie’s supporters, the people of the town attempt to transform an old barn into a new church. Debbie has a lot of problems with the Church board on Friday afternoon, but she convinces them to give her a chance to have the new church ready for that Sunday’s services.  These people break their backs to get it done on time for her.  It is a beautiful family movie to enjoy together.

William Shockley is an actor and the Writer of this movie.  He used to play “Hank” on the old show Dr. Quinn, Medical Woman.  At first I didn’t recognize him without his long hair, but I recognized his distinct deep voice.  He plays the basketball coach at Hayden’s school and takes Hayden under his wing.  He knows that Hayden has promise as a basketball player, but Debbie never let him play on a team before. There is a little promise for them getting together.  The movie is not about that—but you can tell there is a hint of a little attraction there.

Brian Dennehy is also in this movie.  He is great in every movie I’ve ever seen him in and this one is no exception.  He saves the town’s church in a great way. He is the father of the ex-preacher’s wife, whose son gives Hayden trouble. A couple other actors names are:  Brad Stine and Bobby Edner.

This movie is so special because it shows the love of God working in people’s lives.  The main character, Pastor Debbie, is a genuine preacher; you can just tell that her love for the people is heartfelt.

The scripture verse that came to my mind for this movie is Colossians 3:14-15(NLT)–14) And the most important piece of clothing you must wear is love.  Love is what binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15) And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts.  For as members of one body you are all called to live in peace.  And always be thankful.   I give this movie 5 stars for a great Christian message and great family entertainment. I hope you get to watch it.