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Cynics will complain that Evan Almighty's sometimes haphazard grab bag of themes—ecological responsibility, family values, the importance of small acts of kindness—are an attempt to reach out to the wallets of both the religious right and the environmentally-sensitive left. But one of the movie's strengths is the connection it makes between obedience to the Creator and care for his creation. (How did those two concepts ever get divided along party lines?) Some Christians may feel that Freeman/God's claim that the original Noah flood account is really a love story underplays the problem of sin and the reality of God's wrath. But while Evan Almighty may over-simplify the original Deluge, there is no arguing with the idea that even God's harshest discipline is animated by his love. And the film's emphasis on offering small sacrifices of service in one's own home and community is very consistent with the Old Testament's definition of "righteousness" as placing the needs of the community over selfish agendas.

Joan (Lauren Graham) has a heart-to-heart with her Noah-like husband

Evan Almighty is a little too silly and sometimes a little too sloppy to be considered a masterpiece. But the filmmakers have managed to make a truly entertaining film that invites viewers to contemplate the rather big idea that we're all "chosen" to be in relationship with—and obedient to—our Creator. (Evan's last encounter with the Almighty is one of the sweetest depictions of human/divine relationship I've seen, and will stay with me a long time.) Watch two or three other "Christian" movies and what's been accomplished here comes into sharper focus. Evan Almighty isn't perfect, but it is both inspired and inspiring. I can't wait to share it with my family.

Talk About It

1. God/Freeman tells Joan that when people pray for patience, sometimes they get circumstances that allow them to develop patience, and when they pray for courage, sometimes they are given opportunities to be brave. Has that been your experience? Can you think of an instance when something you prayed for was answered in an unexpected way? Can you think of an area where that may be happening now?
2. Read Genesis 8, paying special attention to the second half of verse 9. Given that biblical writers never wasted words, why do you think the action is slowed down for a special mention of Noah reaching out his hand and bringing the dove back to himself? What value does the Genesis flood story place on creation? What are the implications for us as stewards of the earth?
3. Do you think this film portrays God's character accurately? Why or why not?
4. God/Freeman says the Genesis flood story is ultimately a love story. Do you agree? Why or why not?
5. Evan says we are all "chosen" to do special things for God. Do you agree? What does that look like in your life?

The Family Corner

Evan Almighty is rated PG for mild rude humor and some peril. God's name is used in vain a few times (primarily the "Oh my G--" variety), and there is almost no profanity (a few "almost" curses that get diverted at the last minute). There is no sexual or violent content, and only the mildest sense of peril. There is some bathroom and body part humor, mostly to do with animals. It is, for the most part, a wholesome, uplifting film that will appeal to most families.

Photos © Copyright Universal Studios

© Carolyn Arends subject to licensing agreement with Christianity Today International. All rights reserved. Click for reprint information.

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