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"Other films … have captured the feeling brilliantly—like Fame … Dead Poet's Society … or Amadeus," says Greg Wright (Hollywood Jesus). "Raise Your Voice updates this theme for the next generation, and in ways that many will find equally satisfying."

Michael Smith (Hollywood Jesus) says it's not just for teens. "Adults will like and learn from Raise Your Voice, too. It is by and large a wholesome movie, neither preachy nor improbable. What this film does best … is show that doing your best gets a great boost from a combination of faith, family, and friends."

Lacey Mical Callahan (Christian Spotlight) argues, "It could have been done better, but it is not entirely a waste of time. Older teens may enjoy it, though armed with biblical knowledge they will discard the ideas presented as humanistic mire."

Phil Boatwright (CBN) says it's "a bit shallow for adults, but for its intended audience, the film successfully addresses several poignant issues, including standing up for yourself and drawing from a spiritual core when facing life's realities. The actors give bright, sincere performances, and … McNamara's direction is effective at keeping the narrative from becoming maudlin or sugary while never condescending to his intended audience."

He adds, "Though [Duff] is fine in this film, I would suggest she actually attend a performing arts school."

While Duff is raising her voice, most mainstream critics are throwing rotten tomatoes.

Copyright © 2004 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

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Music Man	Printer view
Director Sean McNamara, who grew up listening to and playing music, brought his love for tunes to the feature film Raise Your Voice, starring Hilary Duff and opening this week.