gailnicholson "Running for Grace" is like finding a jewel in the middle of an ordinary day. Filmed among the most breathtaking views in the Hawaiian Islands, director/writer, David Cunningham, has once again captured the amazing strength and resilience of the human spirit in this movie. Similar to earlier works like "To End All Wars," starring Kiefer Sutherland and Robert Carlyle, Cunningham's characters face injustice, prejudices, and hatred, not unlike those we all face at one time or another. Yet, we are reminded that the human spirit can love and dream in spite of such challenges. Ryan Potter as "Joe" and Matt Dillon as "Doc" bring star performances to their roles, and Jim Caviezel as "Reyes" is the perfect antagonist. "Running for Grace" provides an experience rich in Hawaiian culture and its history. It's a treasure to be explored by the entire family!

lilinoeduncan If you're from the Big Island, particularly the west side, this might be fun to watch to catch the familiar scenery and faces of people you know. However, if this doesn't hold hometown appeal for you, it's a TERRIBLE movie so don't bother. It's characters are shallow, 2-dimensional stereotypes and it utterly BUTCHERS (and also outright fabricates) Hawaii's history. There is also a baffling absence of any native Hawaiian characters an area of the State that still has one of the highest percentages of native Hawaiians. The acting is truly awful but given that we know that Matt Dillon and Jim Caviezel are at times capable of good acting, it probably has a lot to do with bad directing also. It's VERY clear to me that all the glowing reviews come from people associated with the film, because even if I was in the most generous mood ever, this movie doesn't merit even 2 stars. Sorry, not sorry.

janrogers It's a classic story of two young lovers separated behind high, thick walls of social class and racial prejudice. Think of it as Romeo and Juliet in a lush tropical setting.Jim Caveziel is Reyes, a villain you love to hate. He couldn't be further removed from his raw portrayal as Jesus in "The Passion of the Christ." All of the actors turned in seamless performances. Ryan Potter shows star quality as Jo, the lead character. Cole Takiue plays Jo as a child, capturing the audience in this, his first acting job.Matt Dillon's performance as Doc wins you over. I liked him before in his Oscar-nominated role in "Crash." With this film he adds even more luster to his career.David Cunningham's skill in pulling all of this together was amazing. He pulls back the curtain on some cruel parts of this Hawaiian island's history. His scenes will also sweep you into the incredible beauty of the Big Island and its people. I can always tell when a movie is very good. If I have a warm, fuzzy feeling the next day, I will never forget that film. Today, with an amazing array of outlets gushing out movies for the big screen, TV, and streaming online, so many are instantly forgotten. Not this one. I'm basking in the satisfaction of a heartfelt story, presented with excellence.

Kristian Snow Watching this film uplifts my spirit- it champions the good in the world while still pulling us through the brokenness of our human nature. It reminds me to continue to champion my foster sister, who also must find her place in two very different cultures.