Joshua MPAA Rating: G Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: +3 1/2

Epiphany Films, LLC, a new production company, introduces this very profound, unique film with an uplifting spiritual theme. Adapted from a novel by Catholic priest Joseph Girzone, JOSHUA is a fictional parable which opens with a stranger, named Joshua (Tony Goldwyn), arriving in Auburn, a remote, rural American town. This mysterious newcomer quickly gains friends among the townspeople with his friendly, caring ways as well as his ability to repair items. He also creates artistic sculptures from wood. After their building is destroyed by a storm, Joshua helps the local Baptist congregation rebuild their church. He also endears himself to the townspeople with insightful, profound comments on spiritual matters. And he becomes a close personal friend of a struggling Catholic assistant priest (Kurt Fuller), and Maggie (Stacy Edwards), a local professional TV personality. But Joshuas popularity disturbs Father Tardone (F. Murray Abraham), senior priest of the local Catholic Church, who sees him as misleading the people. Father Tardone also resents Joshuas critical comments about spiritual leaders. When Joshua performs some astounding miracles, interest in this gentle, loving stranger intensifies even further. Eventually, with malicious intent, Father Tardone asks Joshua to travel to Rome and explain his teachings and miracles to the Catholic hierarchy. What transpires in Rome, and the revelations that come to light, provide an astonishing ending to this engrossing story.

Most Christians will recognize the close resemblance of Joshuas life and teachings to those of Jesus, particularly his compassion and love for ordinary people. In fact, Jesus is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew name Joshua. Many of the storys events during the sojourn in Auburn and Rome parallel those in Biblical scriptures. Joshua comments that Father Tardones sermons cause people to fear God more than love Him. Although Tardone takes offense when Joshua tells the priest he should learn to love more, he eventually recognizes this truth. At a tent revival meeting, Joshua admonishes the evangelist that his flamboyant, dramatic theatrics are not necessary, and demonstrates that only sincere prayer is needed to heal. When Maggie develops romantic feelings for Joshua, he gently tells her that he is not the one for her. During his visit with the Pope in Rome, Joshua encourages the Pontiff to continue telling people to love God and each other. But when the Pope asks Joshua who he is, the answer astounds the spiritual leader. With virtually no objectionable material, the uplifting allegory, JOSHUA, will inspire and intrigue audiences. Crusader Entertainment, the parent company of Epiphany Films, which specializes in productions with positive messages, has more entertaining, wholesome films in development. Watch for them.

Preview Reviewer: John Evans
Distributor: Epiphany Films/Crusader Entertainment LLC, 132 B South Lasky Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90212