I’m Not Ashamed (2016) [Movie Review]


Dir: Brian Baugh
Starring: Masey McLain, Ben Davies, Alex Dickerson
Dur: 1 hr 52 mins
Genre: Biography
Rating: 8.5/10

The film is based on the incredible true story of a teenage girl, Rachel Joy Scott, who lost her life in a shootout on school campus, initiated by two deranged students. The film has strong Christian overtones and resonates a beautifully Christian message even in the face of tragedy. Surprisingly, on one hand and not so much on the other, the film faced a bit of opposition in its release when Youtube for no apparent reason refused to display its trailer; few of the well known film critic sites also slammed the film for capitalizing on a mass-murder event. But aren’t such things to be expected? Did Jesus himself not warn us: “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first” (Jn 15:18)?  


This is definitely one of the better made Christian films. The editing, direction and acting was really professional. There was no attempt at preaching. The protagonist herself says it a couple of times during the film. Her identity as a Christian and the subsequent effects of the choices she makes keeping in mind her Christian ethics are the chief focus of the film. However, the film is not all-spiritual. In fact, the spiritual is introduced very subtly and professionally. The film, for the most part, attempts to present the life of a teenage girl. So, friends, parties, school, relationships, prayer group meetings, vices, depression, suicide and other youthful themes are excellently developed. From this point of view, the film offers an interesting perspective of teenage life and adroitly brings in the faith dimension.

The film is highly watchable and relatable. It’s got a typical teenage vibe to it. While it is a coming-of-age story it doesn’t like other similar stories, neglect the spiritual. It does well to integrate the emotional distress that certain events cause in a teenager as well as the possible helps they can find and the challenges or blocks that could come their way. The ending is rather emotional and had me in tears. The message comes across loud and clear. The film could form an important part in a Christian or youth animator’s repertoire. It offers a number of issues for discussion and reflection. Kudos to the whole team for this wonderful production. It is a beautiful tribute to a girl who lived a beautiful life. Cheers Rachel! Thanks for being a light.

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJJ2xphZjjA

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