To Save a Life (2009)

"What’s the point of all this if you’re not going to let it change you?"

Jake Taylor (Wayne) has it all: a scholarship to the college of his dreams, dating the most popular girl in school, and a solid reputation.  But his entire world comes crashing down after witnessing the death of his childhood best friend, Roger (Bailey).  Suddenly Jake's lifestyle isn't enough... 

As he struggles to deal with guilt over Roger's deal and trying to find meaning in life.  He turns to local youth pastor, Chris (Weigel), for guidance.  Nothing feels right.  His parents (David Starzyk and Laura Black) relationship is falling apart.  His friends, who used to mock Roger are unsupportive ... and his girlfriend Amy (Kreutzberg) doesn't understand.  Can he find answers in God?


I watched this movie on a youth retreat... normally Christian made films have their hearts / messages in the right places, but they just can't deliver a quality film.  The acting and plot normally suffer... and while they tend to start strong, they just end up sounding preachy.  So I admit, I did not have high expectations for this one.

This film works... the acting was good.  The story was good, believable for the age.  I think that was partially due to the writing.  The screenwriter on the film is a youth pastor... and probably drew from his youth experiences.  You can find out more about the film at the movie website (http://tosavealifemovie.com/).

To Save a Life (2009) 120 minutes
Director: Brian Baugh
Starring: Randy Wayne as Jake Taylor
Deja Kreutzberg as Amy Briggs
Joshua Weigel as Chris Vaughn
Sean Michael Afable as Jonny Garcia
Bubba Lewis as Danny Rivers
Robert Bailey Jr. as Roger Dawson
Kim Hidalgo as Andrea Stevens