garden-17
Ah, the Christian thriller. Admittedly, an endangered species these days. "Pray." is the answer as to why they are endangered (it doesn't help that the movie was inspired by a camp-fire story). Its sequels are the answer as to why they will stay that way.The Plot: Two girls go to a Christian music concert. They go home early after being crept out by a spooky hotel manager/concierge. They then go to school...then, one of the girls (Madison) decides to go to the mall. Uplifting mayhem ensues, with a positive miracle at the end. Let's just say, God works in mysterious ways...and, apparently, so do Hondas.Special Effects: There are about as many special effects in this movie, as there are zebras in Antarctica. "John Carpenter's The Thing", this is not.Cinematography: Most of it is a single camera, completely motionless; if the camera ever does move, it seems to move in a circle (almost as if it's on a tripod), although there are the occasional "steady-cam" shots (I reluctantly use that term, because the shots I recall weren't very "steady"). Many shots are so "raw", it's almost as if they stole the camera from the set of "Baise Moi". Not to mention, everything in this movie has a microphone...except the actors/actresses. It's pathetic when I can hear a persons' shoes better than I can hear the person talk.Acting: There is seemingly no acting; an unusual omission from a motion picture. It is clear that most everyone you see on film has never acted in his/her life. It's sad that the mechanic at the end of the movie...is the most talented of the actors/actresses. The two principle actresses were quite likable, however. Nonetheless, being nice does not a good performance make. Winona Ryder is proof of that ("Alien: Resurrection", anyone?).Editing: There is none. Director Mark Mitchell seems to want to stretch things out as long as possible. Shots seem endless. It's like watching paint dry...and then crack...and then fall off...over the course of 20 years. In the span of 72 minutes.Bottom line: Look, I have nothing wrong with Christianity, or Christians, or the message this movie is attempting to reinforce (that miracles can happen, and that faith can help people in times of turmoil). I respect the fact that someone (other than the makers of "Saw", "Death Sentence", and "Law-Abiding Citizen") has made an attempt to make a "philosophical thriller". But, whether Christian or not, there is no excuse not to: (1) make an attempt to act (or learn how to), (2) attempt to make complicated shots, (3) edit the film, and (4) have any attempts at suspense, without telegraphed scares and little to no atmosphere. I know, many non-Christians make this mistake, too. However, in the real world, cars without engines cannot be driven (nor, could Madison have survived a serial killer)!!! I give this movie a 5 out of 10. And two of those points are purely out of penance.
DstnyRdyEtrnity
I bought this film(and Pray 2) at my local Family Christian Store the other day, because it looked really good. I had reservations about it since I could tell that it was low-budget, but I decided to give it the benefit of the doubt. It was awful. Since a lot takes place when it's dark out, you could barely see what was happening since there was no artificial lighting. And everything was ridiculous. Walking to your hotel room doesn't take as long as it did Madison, and getting locked in the mall? Even when the mall was open, you don't see a single other person shopping. And the custodian should have been able to let her out the door, instead of sending her back to the other side of the mall. The way things were playing out was so set up. So if you're looking for a well made Christian movie, this isn't it. Go get Fireproof or Facing the Giants. Those were pretty good.
Carlyannek
I have to admit that I was skeptical at first. The concept of a Christian thriller. But after seeing it on Christian Cinema for about a month in the number one spot for both youth, drama and as one of the top three in the DVD rentals, I finally went out and bought it. Honestly, I wasn't expecting much out of it. But it was a really great movie! This is one movie that I can let my son and his friends watch, without having to worry about what kind of language they might learn or what they might see that they are not suppose to. My husband, our two best friends and I enjoyed it as well. I would highly recommend "Pray" for somebody who is looking for a good thriller but ultimately a clean movie to watch.
palancaster-2
My 12 year old granddaughter absolutely loved this movie. She liked the scary part and also the story...the ending surprised her so much she was going "wow". I think this is such a refreshing answer to teens and pre-teens for a movie. The story kept her attention and satisfied her desire for a good movie. Thanks to the producers and writers. We need more of this kind of movie that exemplifies good morals for our young people. Thanks so much...I hope that you will consider writing and producing another movie of this caliber. The actresses and actors did a great job of making it real. To hold a 12 year old's attention is a quite a statement and she did not even have pop corn or coke!!
