Genre: Action, Mystery, Thriller

Star Rating:

I don’t know about you, but I love a good action movie. With shows like Die Hard and Salt, you just can’t help but feel your heart pound waiting for whatever danger is lurking around the corner. That is the same excitement I felt while watching the Christian action movie Persecuted. Sadly, the Christian action genre is comprised of only a small handful of films. That is why I am so excited to report that this one is a gem!

In Persecuted, evangelist John Luther refuses to support a senator’s proposition calling for religious reform. Consequently, he is framed for murder and goes on the run. In order to get his life back, he has to find out who framed him and why. Persecuted stars James Remar (Dexter, Transformers: Dark of the Moon), Dean Stockwell (Quantum Leap, Battlestar Galactica), Bruce Davison (X-Men, The Fosters), and Brad Stine (Marriage Retreat, Christmas with a Capital C).

From start to finish, Persecuted proved to be a quality production. The cinematography, sound, editing, and acting were all professional grade. The entire film had a dark and ominous feel, which was the perfect choice for such a heavy storyline.

Speaking of which, the film was extremely well written. It kept a good pace that kept me entertained throughout. There were also a lot of relatable themes. For example, they discussed how people often view Christianity as being intolerant. They also pointed out that many people in America don’t believe that the persecution of Christians exists in their country. Both of these sentiments, and many more made throughout the film, are ones I have heard several times while living in Los Angeles. It was the relatability that made love the film…and also scared me. There’s always something a bit unsettling when an action/thriller hits a little too close to home.

The action sequences were fantastic. They delivered several adrenaline pumping scenes. A couple of them actually made me jump in my seat! If I wasn’t fully awake at the start of the movie, than I certainly was at the end.

Well, that’s all I’m going to tell you. I could say more, but if you want to see it than I really shouldn’t ruin the surprise. After all, that’s half the fun. So, if you are a fan of action movies, than I highly recommend this one. It is original, surprising, and available for free streaming on Pureflix.

LOOKING TO SHOW IT AT CHURCH?

Although I really enjoyed the film, I wouldn’t recommend it for church. I feel that its content is a little too mature for use during a sermon or Bible study that caters to a wide range of people. The main messages in the film are not be blinded by greed and ambition, stand up for what is right, and put your full trust in God. But like I said, this film is best watched at home (after the kids have gone to sleep).

WHAT AGE GROUP IS IT FOR?

This is not film for children! Adults only on this one. Persecuted includes depictions of physical violence, murder, drug use, and mentions rape. The themes and messages in the movie also cater to adult.