The Sound of Hope

Beautifully shot and moving, this documentary about at-risk youths in El Salvador, a gorgeous country stricken with gang warfare, shows how classical music education can be used to combat gang violence by providing kids with alternate source of community and support. The documentary immerses you in the experience of being inside those classrooms with both the students and the teachers, some of whom have traveled as part of an aid organization to come teach in the country. What is shown in this documentary should be an impetus for us to re-examine how we need to prioritize education and fostering community support for our own at-risk youths here in the US.

The Sound of Hope tells the true story of 22 families from Possum Trot, Texas who fostered and adopted 77 of the most difficult children in the child welfare system. The story has been featured in several venues, including Oprah, and Good Morning America. On the surface, it sounds like a great concept for film, but how does one write a compelling two-hour script that captures the heart of the issue without being overly sentimental, pedantic, or contrived?

Thankfully, Angel Studios has done what might have seemed impossible. The script is compelling, the acting is realistic, and the best part is that, even though it is rooted in a Christian narrative, it does not shy away from the difficulties of the task. It absolutely shows flawed people living out their faith. This storytelling is not just a true story but storytelling that is true. Definitely worth your time and ticket!