In “Because of Gracia,” senior high schooler Chase Morgan is what you’d call “accomplishment challenged.” His personal motto: “Seize Not the Day.” And when he’s accompanied by his goofy good buddy OB, the two can happily bumble down dude lane. Then Gracia, aka Grace, arrives. Grace has been praying for a Christian friend and is happy to befriend the dumbstruck Chase, whose ADD produces some hilarious dream scenes!

Fortunately she’s everything he’s not: confident, well-spoken, organized. She can dance in the lunchroom or debate origins like an articulate creation sciences professor. The latter doesn’t bode too well with Dr. Livingston, the agnostic debate teacher. But she gets the class thinking outside the public school box and continues to build Chase’s confidence as their friendship (and courtship) grows. Eventually, Chase finds his voice, performing a street poem about Jesus.

Simultaneously, a very different relationship is happening with Bobbi and her atheist beau, Jesse. Choosing poorly, Bobbi gives in to his promises of love and becomes pregnant. Terrified of telling her pastor father, she confides in Grace who assures her God has His plan for her, and it is partially Grace’s influence that sways Bobbi’s turbulent decision about an abortion. Throughout this well-produced film, there are messages of Christian strength and forgiveness as well as consequences for choices. We see God’s work in resolving the lives of those touched by Grace. However, because of the frank discussion about sex and abortion, this film is better suited for ages 12 and older, receiving our Dove Seal for Ages 12+.