A Protestant film that, in terms of screenplay, dramatization, and the delivery of its spiritual message, is better crafted than most recent films set in this milieu. It addresses one of the most difficult issues in marriage—betrayal by a spouse—as well as the challenges of divorce and the capacity for forgiveness in such a situation.

Larry cheats on his wife, which leads to her decision to file for divorce. Larry regrets what he has done and wants to save his marriage; he doesn’t want a divorce, but Carolyn insists on it.

Larry takes his son Cal on a ten-day trip to the Alaskan mountains. There, they have various adventures until Larry is seriously injured while rafting down a river. His son Cal calls on Jonathan, a reclusive old man, for help. Their stay at Jonathan’s home proves to be a new and enriching experience for both Larry and Cal. Because of Larry’s condition, Jonathan decides to go into town, where he arranges for a helicopter to pick up Larry and Cal. Larry is taken to the hospital, where he undergoes surgery and his condition stabilizes.

Meanwhile, Carolyn is confronted by her mother about her life and her neglect of God. After her husband and son return from the mountains, she meets Jonathan, who tells Carolyn his life story and draws parallels with her own marriage. Finally, Jonathan brings Carolyn to a prayer meeting with Billy Graham, where, through his inspiring words, she finds a way back to her husband.

The film beautifully shows how both spouses receive various prompts from God—through people and events—to save their marriage.

Drama / Adventure

USA, 1985, 73 min

Crew: James F. Collier

Cast: James Cavan, Wes Parker, Rita Walters, Chriss Kidd, Coleen Gray

Parents Guide

A married couple discussing divorce and the husband’s infidelity.

Cal laughs with his father at the anger of the elderly Jonathan and shouts “damn radio.”

Pregnant Carolyn asks for information about late-term abortion.

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