DVD - The Second Chance

Sony Pictures – Home Entertainment

After a brief showing in select theaters, The Second Chance is now available on DVD.  The movie marks two firsts for Christian entertainment as it is Michael W. Smith’s acting debut, and Steve Taylor’s movie directing debut.  The movie also features stage actor Jeff Obafemi Carr, J. Don Ferguson, and Lisa Arrindell Andeson.

For me, getting it on DVD was the first opportunity to view the movie.  I was wholly impressed with Smith’s acting and the overall direction of the movie.  Both came across as very believable and there was never a moment of “cheesiness” that often plagues Christian movies.  The story line is very relevant and there is a short piece as an extra on the DVD that was done as a documentary.  This featurette gets behind the heart and soul of the movie and really hammers its message home.  In some ways, I think the documentary should be viewed first in order to put some perspective on the movie.  That way the viewer may not get confused between the real social message of the film and the entertainment aspect of the movie. 

The synopsis of the movie is that an urban pastors kid, who was raise somewhat with a silver spoon in his mouth, gets a chance to discover life outside of the suburban upper-class mega church as a result of disciplinary action.  The suburban PK played by Michael W. Smith has his worldly notions smashed and his faith put to the test and what he learns has eternal importance.  I don’t want to give it all away, but this is a livable lesson for all of us.     

The movie has a PG-13 rating due to drug references and some acts of violence.  The suggested retail price of $24.96 seems a bit high for such a DVD, although you can find it on discount sites for less than $20.00.  For more information on the movie and how to purchase it check out the official web site.

- Ken W.