“Films about faith healing” fall into a niche category as they explore the spiritual and psychological aspects of healing. Faith healing refers to the practice of using prayer, rituals, or belief in divine power to cure illness, in lieu of modern medical techniques. These films often attract audiences who seek spiritually uplifting stories, characterized by a journey through doubt, faith, and eventual healing. Here are some films that revolve around this unique theme:
“Resurrection”, 2013
Director: Daniel Attias, Chris Misiano, Kevin Dowling, Ron Underwood
This is a drama film centered around the character Edna Mae McCauley, who loses her life but is mysteriously resurrected. She then discovers her ability to heal other people, leading to a journey of faith and skepticism in a small town.
Starring: Omar Epps, Frances Fisher, Matt Craven, Devin Kelley, Mark Hildreth, Samaire Armstrong, Landon Gimenez, Kurtwood Smith, Kathleen Munroe, Michelle Fairley;
Production year: 2013;
Genre: fantasy, drama;
Age: 18+;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Resurrection” on the website imdb.com
“Leap of Faith”, 1992
Director: Richard Pearce
Directed by Richard Pearce, this film tells the story of Jonas, a fraudulent faith healer, who encounters authentic miracles in a small town.
Starring: Steve Martin, Debra Winger, Lolita Davidovich, Liam Neeson, Lukas Haas, Meat Loaf, Philip Seymour Hoffman, M.C. Gainey, La Chanze, Delores Hall;
Production year: 1992;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 108 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,1;
More information about the film “Leap of Faith” on the website imdb.com
“Miracles from Heaven”, 2016
Director: Patricia Riggen
Based on a true story, this film narrates a miraculous experience of a little girl, Anna, who is cured from a fatal digestive disorder after a near-death experience. This event changes the faith of her family and those around her.
Starring: Jennifer Garner, Kylie Rogers, Martin Henderson, Brighton Sharbino, Courtney Fansler, Queen Latifah, Eugenio Derbez, Kelly Collins Lintz, John Carroll Lynch, Brandon Spink;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama, family, biography;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 109 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “Miracles from Heaven” on the website imdb.com
“The Green Mile”, 1999
Director: Frank Darabont
Although not entirely focused on faith healing, this film features John Coffey, a character with an ability to miraculously heal the injured, leading to profound implications. The film directed by Frank Darabont explores themes of faith and redemption.
Starring: Tom Hanks, David Morse, Bonnie Hunt, Michael Clarke Duncan, James Cromwell, Michael Jeter, Graham Greene, Doug Hutchison, Sam Rockwell, Barry Pepper;
Production year: 1999;
Genre: drama, fantasy, crime;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 189 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,6;
More information about the film “The Green Mile” on the website imdb.com
“A Question of Faith”, 2017
Director: Kevan Otto
The film depicts the lives of three families whose worlds collide due to a series of unexpected events. The film focuses on the power of faith and healing during the darkest times.
Starring: Richard T. Jones, Kim Fields, C. Thomas Howell, T.C. Stallings, Jaci Velasquez, Gregory Alan Williams, Renée O'Connor, Donna Biscoe, Amber Thompson, Kruz Valero;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 104 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6;
“Faith Like Potatoes”, 2006
Director: Regardt van den Bergh
Based on the true story of a farmer turned evangelist, Angus Buchan, the movie features miraculous instances of faith healing, emphasizing the power and importance of faith in everyday life.
Starring: Frank Rautenbach, Jeanne Wilhelm, Hamilton Dlamini, Candice D'Arcy, Sean Michael, Regardt van den Bergh, Anton Treurnich, Morne Theunissen, Rochelle Buchan, Casper Badenhorst;
Production year: 2006;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 97 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,7;
More information about the film “Faith Like Potatoes” on the website imdb.com
In conclusion, films about faith healing offer audiences a captivating exploration of spirituality, hope, and the human condition. Through diverse narratives that range from the profoundly inspiring to the critically skeptical, these films challenge viewers to reflect on the power of belief, the complexities of faith, and the miracles of healing, whether they be of the body, mind, or soul. They serve not only as entertainment but as a mirror to the myriad ways in which individuals seek comfort, redemption, and answers in the face of adversity. By weaving stories that are at times heart-wrenching, at times uplifting, these films contribute to a broader understanding of faith healing, encouraging empathy and discussion. Whether you are a believer in the power of faith healing or a skeptic of its claims, these films undeniably offer a rich tapestry of human experience, inviting introspection and, perhaps, a deeper appreciation for the mysteries of faith that continue to intrigue and inspire humanity.
