“Find a Way” is a terrific inspirational film about finding a way through when life’s challenges and obstacles block the path. The story, based on actual events, opens with star football player Billy “Smiley” Cain, Jr. winning the big game for his team. Smiley is a compassionate and well-liked senior at his high school. He does good deeds such as boosting a girl’s self esteem when a boy treats her badly and defending a boy he doesn’t know against a bully. He gives the girl, Casey, a cross and tells her it always reminds him that “there is a way.” When Smiley is hospitalized unexpectedly with a life-threatening illness, his influence is felt more than ever.
This movie ties together a number of story lines, including a girl’s parents possibly divorcing, a boy’s father insisting he play football despite his interest in music, and a counselor named Mr. Jordan who is always there for the students. Smiley’s adoptive parents, the Medleys, wait in a bedside vigil, hoping their son will recover. When it looks like he won’t, they learn of a way that he can help others even in death.
This wonderful movie pulls the viewer in and features strong performances including Cranston Johnson as Smiley, Vonii Bristow as Nick Whitefield, Cornelius Muller as Coach Alan Whitefield, and Charis Jeffers as Casey Archer. “Find a Way” features this great line by a pastor: “God called us not to be people of understanding, but people of faith.” For anyone who has made it through a difficult time but didn’t fully understand why the trial took place, this film is for you! Five Doves, our best rating, is presented to this movie and it is awarded our “Faith-Friendly” Seal for ages 12+.