The Inheritance

Like virtually every faith-based film, this one is heavy-handed on message, and poorly written. The plot takes four disparate siblings back to their childhood-home to scatter their mother's ashes and learn of their inheritance. But the mother---being the kook that she evidently was---doesn't make it easy. Instead, she designs a bible-based scavenger hunt to force her children to unite while they search for the will. Sound promising? It is---but weak story lines, redundant bible verse, banal language, and slow pacing, bury it.

The film's redemption is delivered in the casting; Jaleel White (Mr. Shepard,) Cameron Kelly (Kasey Stryker,) and Mychala Lee (Emily,) take us from laughter to tears and remind us what it means to be part of a family. It's impossible to watch the dynamic between Kasey, Emily and Rachel---(played by Mena Suvari)---and not recognize our own family ties.

Despite the fatal writing flaws, I give this movie nine stars because of the cast, and because I'm a fan of the genre. Faith-based films are safe for the entire family, and rich in messages that we can all use---especially these days. If only they could include decent writing.