The Shack - Film Review

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by Rachel Timmins (subscribe)

I am a chief writer for Weekend Notes, a copywriter, published poet and Editor of poetry magazine ‘Fruit Salad’ (on hold). I also write children's fiction and inspirational pieces.

Published May 30th 2017

Prepare to weep & ponder

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The Shack, now playing at Event Cinemas, The Strand, Toowoomba.

Will you find the answers to some of life's mysteries by seeing The Shack? If you've read the novel by William Paul Young, you will not be disappointed.

Protagonist Mackenzie "Mack" Phillips played by Sam Worthington (Avatar, Wrath of the Titans), receives a mysterious invitation that might just be from God himself. Recent, painful memories are dug up. Mack had taken his three children for a weekend at the Wallowa State Park while his wife Nan (Radha Mitchell of The Crazies and Finding Neverland) attends a seminar. Tragedy strikes, catapulting Mack and the Wallowa Police on a search for Mack's daughter, Missy (adorable Amelie Eve).

The elements of The Shack have been cleverly assembled. It's a well-paced drama in pristine countryside and beautifully dressed sets.

When you're mad at God, what would he do to get your attention so he can help you? You can't predict the adventure with one surprise after another.

God the Father is played by Octavia Spencer (Making Sandwiches, The Trials and Tribulations of a Trailer Trash Housewife) and Graham Greene (Dances with Wolves, Die Hard with a Vengeance). Jesus is played by Israeli Avraham Aviv Alush (The Gordin Cell, The Island). The Holy Spirit, the pseudonym Sarayu, is played by Japanese singer/model/actress Sumire Matsubara. Each character is just as I imagined them while reading the book. They are peaceful, loving, powerful and wise teachers.

There is some controversy around the Shack's apparent portrayal of God as part-female. Gender-bending isn't the intended meaning. 'Relationship' is the key to finding the answers to some tough questions. It's not about religion.

Music by Aaron Zigman combined the ethereal with contemporary. The film is by Summit Entertainment. Direction by Stuart Hazeldine (Exam, Agincourt) brought the scenes and characters to life to perfection.

This is a five star drama/fantasy. Now showing at The Strand Event Cinema, Toowoomba. Watch the trailer.

Bring the tissues!

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