Evan Almighty

Went to see Evan Almighty on Monday. It's definitely worth a see. Not sure it needs the big screen for all of it but certainly the denouement won't look as good on the small screen.

Of course there is the inevitable comparison with Bruce Almighty...

I think Evan is in some ways more likeable (doesn't seem like the character was in Bruce Almighty) though a litle bit vain and politiciany! Yet his "conversion" is not as dramatic as Bruce's. He displays some resistance but mostly listens to God and obeys. It's a shame so many of the funny bits have feature in the trailers.

For me the key bits which are worthy of reflection are the scene with God and Evan's doubting wife...

Let me ask you something. If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient? If he prayed for courage, does God give him courage, or does he give him opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for the family to be closer, do you think God zaps them with warm fuzzy feelings, or does he give them opportunities to love each other?

and right near the end when Evan tries to command the water or the ark or the rapidly approaching the bridge or ANYTHING... but finally he says "Can I get some help here?" and God acts! It is GOD'S power not Evan's and Evan knows that (or at least he remembers it eventually!!!)

Like Bruce Almighty there's an easy "lesson" which is that an Act of Random Kindness (A.R.K.) can change the world. There's even a project in American based on the film called ARKalmighty which is helping churches sign up to this concept.

Yesterday we went to see Bourne Supremacy - I have to say it is a better film. Pacier, more engaging, thought-provoking.