“Uncommon” is uncommonly good! It draws the viewer in and keeps the viewer’s attention as it deals with a very modern issue: what kind of rights do Christians have in public schools? The story is interesting and the actors do a good job, particularly Erik Estrada as Mark Garcia, Ben Davies as Aaron Chase, Courtney Buck as Hailey Morgan, Don Brooks as Mr. Stephens and Irma P. Hall as Shirley Dailey.
Aaron Chase survives a shooting at his high school but his brother Chris is killed. He and his mother move in with relatives and he begins attending a new school. He is immediately challenged by Mr. Stephens, a teacher who doesn’t cater to positive comments about Christianity. Aaron speaks up on behalf of Christians and Mr. Stephens likes his boldness. But when Aaron starts a Christian Bible study at school, Mr. Stephens angrily tears down the announcement about the study from the bulletin board. The plot thickens and soon Aaron and a girl named Hailey are attracted to each other. Hailey hopes for a future in drama, but then the school drama budget is completely cut. Aaron comes up with the idea to do a play based on Bible stories. And the custodian, Mr. Garcia, agrees to help because they need an employee of the school to oversee it. Mr. Stephens and the school principal challenge this idea and soon it is headed to court. A lawyer defending the students argues that the Constitution promises freedom to express religious beliefs, not deny them.
There are genuinely funny moments in the movie and the resolution is nicely handled. Scenes of the high school teens helping seniors at a retirement home are heartwarming. We are happy to award “Uncommon” our “Faith-Friendly” Seal for ages twelve plus. The themes of sticking to one’s beliefs, fighting for what is right, and having fun along the way are good ones. This one has earned five Doves, our best rating. This uncommonly good film will inspire viewers everywhere!