Thr3e

Christian Movie Review

In the words of Randy Jackson (American Idol), I'm just 'keepin it real' when I say the acting in Thr3e is not great. Suspenseful action and thrilling twists don't come close to the intensity of Ted Dekker's best-selling novel, Thr3e. In other words, the book is much better than the movie. But as a Christian movie enthusiast, there's no doubt the options in Christian entertainment are getting better in quality, quantity and diversity. Yes, all thr3e. So, I tip my hat to FoxFaith Movies for bringing another clean (and refreshingly free from sex, drugs, and gore) film selection to Christian audiences.

• Genre: Mystery/Thriller/Faith
• DVD Release: April 24, 2007
• Rated: PG-13
• Distributed by: FoxFaith Movies and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment
• Director: Robby Henson
• Cast: Marc Blucas (Kevin Parson), Justine Waddell (Jennifer Peters), Laura Jordan (Samantha Sheer), Max Ryan (Captain Milton), Bill Moseley (Slater), Priscilla Barnes (Belinda Parson)
• Writer: Based on Ted Dekker's novel, Thr3e
• Producer: Ralph Winter

Kevin Parson is a young man of impressive intelligence about to graduate from seminary. While writing his final thesis on the inner battle between good and evil within man's soul, he begins to be stalked by a psychopathic serial killer. Police psychologist Jennifer Peters wants on the case after recovering from this same killer's previous attack. She nearly died when the stalker bombed her brother to death. Together they attempt to solve the madman's clever riddles, yet as they draw closer to unraveling the mystery, the answers grow even more obscure. Surprising twists lead up to one final shocking scene that, fortunately, does not disappoint. Without spoiling it for readers, I'll give the film makers kudos for pulling off the stunning surprise.

Several Bible verses are quoted or illustrated throughout the film. They play a big part in the killer's clues and riddles. Though oversimplified and underdeveloped, the spiritual themes of the film are obvious. In the end the message is clear—the battle of the soul between good and evil can only be won through the power of God.

When she finds out he's facing trouble, Kevin's childhood friend Samantha comes to offer support and positive encouragement. Their friendship demonstrates maturity, respect and Christian purity.

The film also makes a bold, perhaps even controversial statement about the very serious issue of child abuse, vividly portraying the devastating effects and consequences of early psychological trauma.

The biggest downer for me in Thr3e was the less than convincing performances of the film's two main characters. As it progressed, I was able to look past the awkward acting and become fully involved in the plotline, but entertainment is always best when it happens effortlessly.

Sexual Content:

There is no nudity or sexual content in the film.

Violence:

There is a strong degree of violence in the film, though it is not the bloody, gory kind. The physical and psychological abuse shown in an emotionally dysfunctional family is quite disturbing. Themes of murder, torture and terrorism are prevalent in the film. The dread and terror of a bomb threat is vivid and several life-threatening scenes unfold. Victims are held at gunpoint, bound, gagged, punched and strapped with explosives.

Language:

"Puke," "crap" and "moron" are the harshest words in the film. This is about as clean as they come out of Hollywood.

No characters are seen drinking in the film, however, one of Kevin's classmates is shown leaving a bar. He stumbles to his car as though under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Conclusion:

As a Ted Dekker fan, I hope we'll get to see more of his books made into films. Heaven's Wager and Blessed Child would be my next choices!

If you'd like to learn more about FoxFaith's upcoming films, visit FoxFaithMovies.com.