The Shunning

7.2 stars.

I somewhat enjoyed the poignant factors in 'The Shunning'. It's not at all what I was expecting. We see some short scenes of a girl who we know is Amish, yet she's living in the secular world. But that was only a short scene, so I'm wondering if it was a daydream, or a flash into the future, or if the whole film was a flashback. But I'm not bothering to rewind and see exactly what I missed, I'm going to move on to the sequel.

Like I said, this film is enjoyable enough for a viewing. I'll probably not watch it again...well maybe in 15 years or so, who knows. My re-watch list generally has to be a 7.5 or higher.

Not much else to say except it's a touching story, but there is too much wasted potential. The plot is too basic. I think that's because they planned two sequels. Maybe next time make one sequel, pack more of a wallup two movies, instead of watering down three.

Having read all the books in the series, I was really looking forward to this movie. Many people have complained about the fact that this movie did not follow the books. I think most movies that are made from books are quited different from the books themselves. Still, even though the book and the movie were quite different from each other I thought the movie was wonderful! The characters were very believable and if you just enjoy the movie without thinking of the book I think you will find it extremely enjoyable. I myself hope they continue on with the series and make each one into a movie. Even the Love's series by Janet Oke were quite different once put into a movie. Still, it is a great family movie and one that the whole family can watch without blushing or worrying about language. I am thankful for movies like this that prove you can have a good movie without all the trash. Keem em coming!!

If group psychological intimidation of members into submission is an actual practice, it paints a harsh, and strict portrait of cultural life in these communities. But it's movie-land so who really knows. Acting is very decent.. Danielle Panabaker.. binged.it/1te82U4 .. is wonderful in her part, all the cast is solid. Daniel departs to find his 'other' world, then Katie gets her chance as well.. eventually to somewhat cross paths in the next part of the series 'The Confession'.. bit.ly/17ovEHV (track it down online). Panabaker does not make the transition to part 2 (the only important one missing)... Sherry Stringfield does, with a much larger role. Part 2 has a much different feel, Katie LeClerc.. bit.ly/17qj4YI .. truly does a fine job, but those missing Panabaker are entirely correct. It was a blunder not making sure she'd return, and a real cop-out for producers to say an actor's 'not available.' Long running series with same cast members are created all the time... it's just bs, and exceptionally poor decision making preventing it from happening. Hope the final installment in the series comes out soon, to reveal if Daniel's prophecy gets fulfilled.

Although I'm quite skeptical about films with a strong religious element, I did very much enjoy this story still. It's a "feel good drama" and I do love to see lives different from my own, and I think this film does this well.

Although I do think many people can connect with trying to figure out who you are in the world, and not quite feeling like you fit in or belong. I think it's pretty well written overall. It has some cheesy lines from the religious folk, who try and help Katie, but I think they can be forgiven because the characters are quite endearing.

I have not read the book, didn't know this movie comes in a trilogy and I do not know much about Amish community. Only realised there is a book and the movie is a trilogy after I finished watching this movie and read the comments of reviews in this App. I must say the story is good, pace is fast moving and at times a bit rushed, acting is believable and the songs are nice. I find it pretty entertaining and a good family movie. I did not understand the over-dramatizing of being adopted, maybe the news was aggravated by the fact she is only told about it 20 years later. This movie is definitely interesting enough to make me watch the continuing 2 movies that make this a trilogy.