Films about the Amish community explore the lifestyle, beliefs, and challenges faced by the Amish, a group known for simple living, plain dress, and reluctance to adopt many conveniences of modern technology. These movies often delve into the culture clash between the Amish way of life and the outside world, along with themes of identity, faith, and tradition. They can range from dramatic to romantic to suspenseful, providing a wide lens on Amish society and its interactions with broader society.
“For Richer or Poorer”, 1997
Director: Bryan Spicer
This comedy features a wealthy New York couple who go on the run from the IRS and end up hiding out in an Amish community. The film humorously depicts their struggle to adapt to the starkly simple Amish lifestyle, leading to a series of comedic and enlightening situations.
Starring: Tim Allen, Kirstie Alley, Jay O. Sanders, Michael Lerner, Wayne Knight, Larry Miller, Miguel A. Núñez Jr., Megan Cavanagh, John Pyper-Ferguson, Carrie Preston;
Production year: 1997;
Genre: melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 115 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,8;
More information about the film “For Richer or Poorer” on the website imdb.com
“Amish Grace”, 2010
Director: Gregg Champion
Based on a true story, this television film deals with the aftermath of the 2006 Nickel Mines school shooting in an Amish community. It focuses on the community's remarkable response of forgiveness and reconciliation towards the shooter's family, offering a profound look at Amish principles of forgiveness and nonviolence.
Starring: Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Tammy Blanchard, Fay Masterson, Madison Mason, Gary Graham, Darcy Rose Byrnes, Karley Scott Collins, Eugene Byrd, Bruce Nozick, Amy Sloan;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: drama, biography;
Duration: 89 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7;
More information about the film “Amish Grace” on the website imdb.com
“Devil's Playground”, 2010
Director: Mark McQueen
This documentary film explores the Amish rite of passage called Rumspringa, where teenagers are allowed to explore the outside world before deciding to commit to the Amish church. The film provides an intimate look at the challenges and temptations faced by these young adults as they navigate between two vastly different worlds.
Starring: Danny Dyer, Craig Fairbrass, MyAnna Buring, Jaime Murray, Shane Taylor, Bart Ruspoli, Craig Conway, Lisa McAllister, Alistair Petrie, Jack Healy;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: horror, action;
Duration: 93 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,1;
More information about the film “Devil's Playground” on the website imdb.com
These films offer a glimpse into the Amish way of life, portraying their traditions, values, and the complexities that arise when these intersect with the modern world.
The films exploring the Amish community provide a unique window into a world that simultaneously exists within and apart from modern society. Depicted with a range of emotions from reverence to curiosity, these narratives delve into themes of faith, simplicity, community, and the inevitable clash of cultures. By juxtaposing the serene and traditionally bound life of the Amish against the backdrop of the ever-evolving external world, filmmakers not only celebrate the strength and purity of Amish values but also probe the complexities and challenges that arise when these two worlds intersect. Through stories of love, struggle, and reconciliation, these films offer a poignant reflection on the universal human search for meaning and belonging, underlining the profound impact of understanding, tolerance, and respect for diversity in forging communal harmony.
