Higher Ground (2011)

Do you believe if you are to obtain salvation you must follow God and his word. But what happens if you don't

Most films about faith and religion usually contain a message. One way or another those films try to shove it down your throat. What makes "Higher Ground" so rare it doesn't. What is so appealing is how the story unfolds under a mindful intelligent manner, without a melodramatic tone.

A very complex story of an individual struggling between doubt and belief. We follow Corrine from childhood, to teenager, and finally to adulthood (Vera Farmiga) in an unspecified rural community. A town who's people all seem to have found the holy spirit. As hard as Corrine tries (she can quote scriptures with the best) to find the spirit and feel God she simply can't. To save herself she slowly moves away from those that have preached to her life-long.

Corrine realizes that you can admire someone's faith, without following it, or be atheist.

With the exception of a few misplaced parts....her teenage years and fantasy scenes....this is an excellent made film. Ms. Farmigna is not only the star, but offers her first directional debut. There are those that will stay away because of the theme. And others that may be grounded due to the brash ending.


A-

Jack