In this fascinating faith-based film, Dr. Charles Grayson finds himself on trial to see if he is competent, because he has helped several people out with a lot of money! That is his crime-after hearing a sermon by his pastor about making a difference in life and helping others. Dr. Grayson, who is elderly now, takes the sermon quite seriously. The movie does a good job in getting people to look within, to decide if they are doing what they can to assist others. It also vividly makes the point that some people do not understand the concept of giving to others, and they question some Christians and their sanity.
This film succeeds in its purpose despite its black and white presentation. It has interesting stories and it clearly reveals that people haven’t really changed-the problems of yesterday and yesteryear are often the problems of today. And the acting in the film is convincing as well.
This setting, Superior Court, shows a variety of backgrounds of people on the jury. They must wrestle with the issue as to whether or not Dr. Grayson is competent and will wind up impoverishing himself in his giving to assist others and their needs. One attorney claims that Dr. Grayson’s actions warrant a verdict for the plaintiffs, says the prosecuting attorney, although he feels sympathy for the defendant, Dr. Grayson. It’s said the complaint brought against him is for his own good!
Dr. Grayson transferred $10,000 into a checking fund for special needs people. The prosecution argues that there are religious organizations and welfare agencies to take care of such needs. Dr. Grayson replies that there are those that are deemed unworthy or ineligible for such aid and assistance. One attorney asks the other if he attends church and he replies that he does indeed.
One of the interesting scenarios in the film involves a former bookmaker and shoplifter with a police record. His name is Louie and Dr. Grayson meets him, hears he is in need, and writes him out a $50 check. Louie brings a lady to the doctor to help, but Louie is still a bit of a shyster. She is given $400 by Dr. Grayson, to bury her husband she tells him, and she promptly splits it with Louie. She does soon admit that “Freddy” isn’t really her husband, but her cat!
Dr. Grayson’s pastor, Pastor Goodwin, is called to the stand and it’s stated that Dr. Grayson was already a member of the church when the pastor took on the position. The fact that God can do the impossible is illustrated when a man named Jimmy Daniels needs a delicate operation, due to a brain injury. Dr. Grayson is hesitant to perform it, due to his advanced years, but and another physician feels the surgery is impossible to perform. But Dr. Grayson believes it can be done and the operation is successful.
Dr. Grayson eloquently says, echoing the Apostle Paul, “I am what I am by the grace of God.” Dr. Grayson also supports missions work and declares that he feels as if he’s giving his money unto Christ. And one lady that is helped claims she plans to pay the good doctor back. When asked if he believes Dr. Grayson is crazy, his defense attorney asks, “Why?” And the question “why?” strikes home with a lot of people, including the jury. Why is someone crazy because they care about others and give financially to help them? Without giving the ending away, we believe the film contains a satisfying conclusion. Due to its wholesome presentation and emphasis on giving for God’s glory, this movie easily merits our Dove seal for All Ages.
The Dove Take:
This movie hits home with its emphasis on giving to help others that God might be glorified.
