Most

Most (aka The Bridge) is a short film that runs for only 29 minutes, but will rank among the most powerful and moving films you'll ever watch. Set in Czech Republic, it concerns a single father working at a railroad bridge, and his eight-year-old son whom he dearly loves. It's hard to talk about the plot without giving away anything, but let's just say a tragedy occurs. Through the highly emotional and heartbreaking performances, you are invited to dwell deeply on the issue of ethical dilemmas and ultimately, the goodness of mankind. Obvious Christian references are made, and causes you to once again deeply meditate on God's love. Is there hope left in our bleak world? After watching this, I would say yes, there is.

If you have an opportunity to see this film take it. If you have an opportunity to listen to the filmmakers talk about this film drop everything to be there. The source material for this story has touched me for years. (Supposedly based on a true story that has now taken on the status of a spiritual legend.) This film takes this material and moves it beyond moral anecdote to an experience that is unprecedented in cinema. The cinematography is great, acting is great, music fits. Although the emotional impact is beyond intense, you are never forced into the emotion. You are presented with times of joy, humor, anguish, and hope in a way that your heart chooses to experience. You must watch it multiple times to catch all the imagery and savor the experience. This is the only film that I have a waiting list of friends wanting to borrow it after I showed it to them.

I want to address anyone who may be reluctant to watch this if they heard that it is a "Christian" film. Over the years that adjective in the arts has sadly (but in most cases justifiably) become synonymous with "of poor production quality" or "preachy". Neither of these descriptions apply to this film. 'Most' is a spiritual experience that does parallel themes in Chritianity but can be appreciated by anyone, no matter their spiritual journey. I have shown this film to people who follow the teachings of Jesus Christ and people who do not. Every person I have shown it to have had only good things to say about it. It is what the genre should be producing. Companies wanting to make religious films should take their cue from this one.

I saw this movie in the company of the directors Bobby Garabedian and William Zabka in a private screening of the movie. Needless to say, this movie was absolutely breathtaking. I can honestly say this is one of the best movies I have ever seen, the parallels in this movie to Biblical truth are staggering and the sheer art form it possesses is remarkable. If you have not seen it, or have even the slightest bit of remote interest in viewing it, I strongly urge you to. Please don't let the fact that the movie is in another language hinder you from watching, in fact, it makes it 1000 times better. This movie has changed my life and even several months after watching it, I am still amazed by it.

I saw this movie at a church family retreat. You can't describe the depth and meaning of this film, it HAS to be seen. I couldn't keep from thinking about it. It paralleled my life so much and I could truly relate. I went away actually bawling. This truly represents Gods love for his children. I had to go out and purchase the movie for myself. I am excited to share it with my Youth Group at church. I think this could make an impact on many youth because it hits so many areas of life. A must see for everyone. Kudo's to everyone involved with the production. I look forward to seeing more works from Bobby Garabedian and William Zabka.

Saw this film at Sundance 2003. I felt as though I were watching a feature length film...has all the qualities. From the opening scene you are drawn into a beautiful but edgy, visually captivating story that touches your heart. It was filmed in Prague with incredible Czech actors (English Subtitles) and the production value is first class. Not to be missed if you have a chance to see it.