Leap of Faith (DVD, 2003)

Yes, I gave it an excellent and I have a lot of reasons why - Debra Winger, Liam Neeson and Meat Loaf all in the same flick. Or how about Steve Martin in a dramatic role, one that he so completely embodies that I have a hard time remembering it's him. Whenever I try to tell someone about the movie I have to say "it has that comedian in it, you know, the one who used to wear the broken arrow on his head and play the banjo." It's an odd cast of characters but the script calls for it and it works.

The story has its sappy moments (I could do without the butterfly scene) and is predictable for the most part. So, you ask, how could I rate it excellent? Here's how. The first time I watched it I found myself standing in my living room, clapping, tears streaming down my face. I have watched it over 100 times since and each time I am touched from the start.

Although I know it almost scene by scene somewhere within this story, played out so well by Martin and Winger, each time I watch it I leave it with a new appreciation for the power of faith. Not the power of a religion. Not the power of dogma or doctrine. Just for the power of pure, simple, unyielding faith. And in today's times a movie that can do this is, in my book, excellent.

I am going to watch it now.
I invite you to do the same.
Bring a box of tissues and be prepared to applaud.