Hope Ranch is a powerful, inspiring, and rich drama with great characters and a realistic story. Mike, played by the excellent actor John Schneider, moves his family—wife Rebeccah and daughter, Grace, to a new ranch where he says they will live for the rest of their lives. The family loves it. And when Mike gives his daughter Grace a beautiful horse named Faith, she is over the moon. Unfortunately, life soon gets in the way when Mike, formerly an army commander, is recalled for a second tour of duty. He feels obligated to help his country and accepts the call. While he’s away, Rebeccah and Grace receive tragic news that will result in their lives never being the same again.

This movie tenderly deals with grief and loss following the death of a loved one. There are tears shed, yet Rebeccah doesn’t lose her faith or reliance on God. She continues to go to church and Pastor Williams and his wife are constant sources of comfort and encouragement. The problem is with Grace—who wants nothing to do with church following the death of a loved one. And when it looks certain that the ranch will be lost—as the family is hopelessly behind in mortgage payments, Grace falls further into despondency and doubt.

The film does a remarkable job in showing what faith, hope and love can do in turning things around. This wonderful film contains scenes of grief but also several scenes of finding hope in difficult circumstances. We are pleased to award the movie our Dove seal for All Ages with the note that parents should watch the movie with young children to answer any questions regarding death and grief. The movie does a commendable job in showing that miracles can still occur.

The Dove Take:

You will love this family and this film, and you’ll feel their pain and rejoice with them in their triumphs.