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Regarding the actors, he says, "Elise delivers an emotionally penetrating performance. Jakes … has a presence to match his sizable frame, and exudes a sincerity which is both charismatic and consoling."

Reviews from mainstream critics range from high praise to harsh criticism, so that it's hard to believe they've seen the same film. But most agree that it might have done better with a little less "self-promotion" by Jakes. Dave Kehr (The New York Times) says the movie "renews an important tradition of African-American filmmaking: the movie as revivalist sermon, a genre epitomized by Spencer Williams's magnificent Blood of Jesus of 1941."

Adam R. Holz (Plugged In) is impressed with "the power of Michelle's story combined with Jakes' compassionate and wise responses to her brokenness. [The film] does a masterful job of showing how one generation's weaknesses and sins shape the lives of the next." Holz notes that the film's R-rated elements (sex and violence) guarantee that "it'll (rightfully) remain out of bounds for quite a few families—some very much in need of the message presented. Namely, that God promises to enter into the most shattering experiences of our lives, if we'll let Him."

Jennifer Parker (Catapult Magazine) says, "The film dramatically unfolds an unforgettable character's story, which will be for some an autobiography, for others an indictment, and for the chosen few, hopefully, a call to compassionate action. [The] film artfully reminds the Church to heed the cry of the victimized."

A ready-to-download Movie Discussion Guide related to this movie is available at ChristianityTodayMoviesStore.com. Use this guide after the movie to help you and your small group better connect your faith to pop culture.

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Jakes on the Loose	Printer view
Bishop T. D. Jakes, whose best-selling book, Woman, Thou Art Loosed! is now a full-length motion picture opening this week, talked to us about the movie and its potential impact.