The Song

This new music-based film is a remarkable story about sin, faith and grace  . . .

The Song
Starring Alan Powell, Ali Faulkner
In theaters now
Rated PG-13
Run time: 111 min

Faith-based films are not what they used to be. Moms’ Night Out (Patricia Heaton) and When the Game Stands Tall (Jim Caviezel) from earlier this year are proof of that.

Next comes The Song, a remarkable music-driven romantic drama about things we all pursue — love and meaning. Aspiring singer‐songwriter Jed King (Powell) is struggling to catch a break and escape the long shadow of his famous father when he reluctantly agrees to a gig at a local vineyard harvest festival. Jed meets the vineyard owner’s daughter Rose (Faulkner) and a romance quickly blooms.

Soon after their wedding, Jed writes Rose “The Song,” which becomes a breakout hit. Suddenly thrust into a life of stardom and a world of temptation, his life and marriage begin to fall apart.

The Song was filmed on location in Nashville and Kentucky — known for Americana music and family. But music is more than a score in this film; it’s the backdrop from which the story unfolds.

Viewers who love American music, indie singer-songwriters, or dream of the allure of the road will especially love this film.

Woven throughout the story is voice-over narration taken from verses in Song of Solomon, Ecclesiastes and Proverbs. Metaphorically, the film draws on the life and writings of King Solomon, thought to be one of the wisest men in history — and known for his book on love, intimacy and God’s radical pursuit of humanity.

However, with its entertaining blend of music, romance and heartbreak, The Song plays to wider audiences and is reminiscent of films like Walk the Line, Country Strong and Crazy Heart.

“The Song has the potential to resonate with anyone, regardless of their beliefs or background,” says writer and director Richard Ramsey. “I think movie-goers will appreciate this film as a stand-alone, music-driven drama that plays as a cautionary love story and not a cinematic sermon.”

With near-perfect casting, cinematography and acting, this reviewer agrees wholeheartedly.

PATRICK NOVECOSKY is Legatus magazine’s editor-in-chief.