Joyriders, The MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: +2

Executive producer Norm Miller has done with JOYRIDERS what many have been clamoring for since the moral quality of Hollywood films began to deteriorate. He's produced a very realistic, uplifting dramatic film which does not offend discerning viewers. It's about an aging man in Seattle, Gordon Trout, played magnificently by Martin Landau, and the hair-raising adventures he experiences when he is kidnapped by three homeless teenagers. The leader of the teenagers is an out of control young man named Cameron(Shawn Hatosy), accompanied by his girlfriend , Jody(Elizabeth Moss) and her street wise companion Crystal(Heather McComb). Gordon is at the end of his rope with serious thoughts of suicide. The teenagers commandeer Gordon and his old Cadillac and head for Mexico. Gordon tries to escape more than once, but eventually decides to stay with them and help them out of their troubles. And they are all taken in for awhile by a minister played by Kris Kristofferson. The acting in this very professionally produced film is outstanding. And the film's action, suspense and pathos will particularly appeal to teenagers and young adults.

JOYRIDERS shows subtly how desperate people, both young and old, can find meaning in their lives through trust, compassion, and faith in Christ. Some of the action scenes become intense, including some hand fights, strikings and an attempted rape. And Cameron makes some mildly suggestive quips about having sex with the girls and is seen briefly in bed with the two girls, but all are fully clothed. Crystal takes drugs regularly , but it is not condoned. The most questionable element in the film is the use of a number of mildly crude words and four mild obscenities. But none of these elements are severe or frequent enough to seriously mar the film, and it is appropriate for youth over 11 years of age. Gordon's willingness to befriend the wayward teenagers and the minister's kindness and witness to them is moving and uplifting. This realistic and meaningful film is what discerning viewers, particularly Christians, have been looking for.

Preview Reviewer: John Evans
Distributor: Norann Productions/Interlinc,5307 Leipers Creek Road, Franklin, TN, 37064