Paul’s Promise
When your world is on fire, where do you turn?
It depends on what’s on fire, right? Well in the case of Paul. It’s everything. It’s 1967 and he lives in North Little Rock, AK. and he’s a fire fighter. Homes of black citizens are being set on fire weekly and he is a firefighter, His marriage and family life is in discord. And his beloved “Momma” is dying. In other words, his entire world is on fire.
Paul’s Promise
Many thanks to Damascus Road Productions for providing a sample of the
product for this review.
All opinions are mine. It is my Universe, after all.
This is a Real Journey of a Real Man
This film is a powerful look at a real man’s journey from anger to forgiveness. Paul lived a difficult life punching his way through a deep anger and fear of being his Daddy. Everyone around him tries to help him. His childhood friend Jimmy, a young black man, tried to help him.
“Cannot beat the devil by acting like the devil”
Paul getting the what-for from one of his Momma’s best friends
His bartender thinks he’s helping him. His mother never stops trying to help him. His wife, although frustrated with him, wants to help him.
“You’ve got all the time in the world to sit in that rocking chair but you’ve only got one chance with those kids of yours. You better decide what’s more important”
Everybody on earth is doing what they can to help put out Paul’s fire, but it takes a broken promise to his Momma that finally changes everything. This film at its core is about redemption. While Momma wants Paul to go to church and believes he will become a preacher, I believe anyone could enjoy, as I did, Paul’s growth out of darkness. It’s not preachy. In fact, it’s that very rejection of judgment and showy holiness keeping Paul away from church doors. Many may relate to him in these feelings.
Hearts can Change.
The World Can Get Better
I was personally inspired as a progressive seeing a bigoted man in segregated South having his heart turned. Paul did go on to live his Momma’s dream. He opened an integrated church and opened a pantry that fed thousands of children of all races in the poorest part of North Little Rock. It still stands and is run by his children today.
35 years later, Paul’s issues aren’t that different than those we face now, which is why I think this is a great movie to watch with your family now. “Paul’s Promise” opens tonight in theaters. You can learn more here.
Want a sneak peek?
I’m Thankful for You
Finally, to thank you for stopping by and checking out this film, my friends at #MomentumInfluencerNetwork and I are hosting a giveaway. Leave a comment sharing something you for which you are thankful and you will be entered for a $10 amazon card. It’s that easy!
Closed
US Winners only. Closes 11:59 10/29
