Movie Review: Hidden Secrets

This is an extremely difficult review to write. Most Christian movies are poorly written, badly acted, and frustratingly in conflict with Christianity as practiced by real people. They make you cringe, knowing that they will reinforce the stereotype of the holier-than-thou, “pie in the sky” Christian who has his problems - if they exist at all - magically solved. Unbelievers are out there just waiting to be rescued by this Christian, who solves their problems and leaves no loose ends. Bible verses are wielded like a mallet, pounding every problem into submission.

Hidden Secrets is nothing at all like those movies.

That is why this review is so hard to write. I want to rave about this movie and discuss every detail and nuance. I could do that, having watched it five times. But the reviewers have been asked to let the plot of Hidden Secrets remain, well, hidden.

I can tell you something about the characters - full descriptions are available on the website, along with the trailer and some fun behind-the-scenes footage and interviews. Rhonda is the Christian you love to hate. As the character Gary asks, “Where are the lions when you need them?” But even Rhonda has her redeeming moments, like any real person does. Just when you want to throttle her, there is a tender moment and you see how much she cares about other people - especially the ones she hurts and frustrates at every turn. Gary, the unbeliever, is intelligent, funny, and in no way sees himself as someone in need of rescue. Rachel is manipulative - and vulnerable. Michael is charming, and struggling to believe that forgiveness really is possible. They’re all struggling and doing their best. The characters are like people you know, or wish you knew.

Although this movie is a drama, it’s also genuinely funny. My husband particularly enjoyed the interplay between the men as they worked and joked together. It was very true to life.

My daughter will be seventeen next month and really enjoyed it. I don’t recommend this movie for younger teenagers. Although it doesn’t contain nudity, sex, violence or cursing, the topics are appropriate for adults and older teenagers.

Here is the description from the website:

What if your deepest secret were suddenly exposed? Nine friends discover just how explosive it can be when their past becomes their present.

Reunited at the funeral of hometown hero Chris Hayden, the friends find tensions escalating rapidly as their darkest secrets are revealed. Jeremy (David A.R. White-“Mercy Streets”), struggling with his calling as a former youth pastor, is caught in an awkward love triangle between his new fiancée and his old flame Sherry (Tracey Melchoir-“Bold and Beautiful”). As the embers of the past relationship reignite, Jeremy’s fiancée Rachel (Stacey Keanan-“Step by Step”), who is determined to solidify their relationship, demands he affirm his commitment to her.

Meanwhile, Gary (John Schneider-“Dukes of Hazzard”, “Smallville”) questions everyone’s beliefs as this close-knit group of friends disputes world views, lifestyles, and personal passions. Pastor Wexler (Reginald Vel Johnson-“Die Hard”, “Family Matters”) encourages them not to give up but to follow the truth that Chris Hayden lived.

Hidden Secrets is a story of love, friendship, redemption and ultimately faith. Humorous, touching and always entertaining.

Featuring Hit Music by Rachael Lampa and Building 429

The quality of Hidden Secrets is just phenomenal. It is well written, well acted, and it gracefully addresses some really difficult issues. My family really enjoyed this movie, and we’re looking forward to future PureFlix productions. Here’s the promo video, and disregard the dates mentioned in the video. You can see it in theaters starting April 30th and you can get the DVD on the PureFlix website.

Reviewed for Active Christian Media.

Lagniappe: I am also pleased to report that John Schneider is even better looking now than he was when I spent nearly a month’s allowance on his first record album in 1981.