“Beyond the Mask” is a rollicking and action-packed film about our country’s independence and the people who made it happen. Based on true events, it ends with the signing of the Declaration of Independence but a lot of action, battles, and a little romance lead up to the historic event. The excellent cast features a strong performance by Andrew Cheney as William Reynolds, Kara Killmer as Charlotte Holloway and John Rhys-Davies as Charles Kemp. Reynolds has a violent past, but he winds up as vicar at a church. Charlotte saved his life when she found him nearly drowned in the river after being wounded. He becomes vicar of the church but, although she is drawn to him, Charlotte can tell he seems to be more of an acquaintance of God rather than a true friend.
The drama elevates when Charlotte learns that William, with whom she is falling in love, is hunted by the powerful East India Company which would like nothing better than to see William dead and Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and the other patriots dead along with him. Charlotte doesn’t know what to believe about William, but he promises he will become a man worthy of her affections. Told he should be concerned about redemption and not revenge, William strikes a bargain with God in an effort to earn his own redemption. He becomes the Highwayman and the Masked Vigilante, protecting those seeking freedom from violence and terrorism. Ultimately, he discovers that it is only through Christ’s finished work and not his own efforts that he can earn redemption.
The story, filled with energetic battles and personal skirmishes, rushes toward a climax that features the struggle for independence and those who would thwart it if possible. With themes highlighting forgiveness, redemption, and fighting for one’s beliefs, this amazing movie has earned our Dove Seal for ages 12 and older. It is about a historic time and features great settings, ships, sword fights, and romance. The film is a stunning visual feast!
