Welcome to our article, where we will uncover the truth behind the movie Running for Grace and its Christian themes. If you are wondering whether this movie is suitable for you or your family, then keep reading.
Running for Grace is a 2018 drama film directed by David L. Cunningham. The movie follows the story of Jo, a half-Japanese orphan boy who is in search of his identity and true love in the 1920s Hawaiian islands.
If you are looking for a movie that explores love, sacrifice, and redemption while weaving in Christian themes, then this may be the perfect movie for you. Let’s dive into the details and discover the truth behind the question on everyone’s mind: Is Running for Grace a Christian movie?
Join us as we examine the movie’s plot, characters, themes, and its relevance to the Christian faith. You won’t want to miss what we have to say about this inspiring film.
Table of Contents
What is Running for Grace?
Running for Grace is a romantic drama film set in Hawaii during the 1920s. The story follows the life of a young orphan boy named Jo who works for the local plantation owner, and his journey to find love, family, and acceptance. Throughout the film, the characters navigate themes of faith, hope, and redemption, making it a poignant and uplifting story for audiences of all ages.
The film, directed by David L. Cunningham, stars an ensemble cast of talented actors including Jim Caviezel, Matt Dillon, and Julia Jones. The production features stunning visuals of the Hawaiian landscape and incorporates traditional Hawaiian music to capture the culture and history of the setting.
Running for Grace was released in 2018 and received critical acclaim for its engaging story and captivating performances. The film’s universal themes and timeless message make it a must-see for audiences seeking a heartfelt and inspiring movie experience.
If you’re looking for a heartwarming story that explores the power of love, faith, and hope, then Running for Grace is a movie you won’t want to miss. Keep reading to learn more about the film’s cast, themes, and where you can watch it.
Overview of the Plot
Running for Grace is a romantic drama film set in the 1920s in Hawaii. The story follows a young orphan boy named Jo, who dreams of finding his parents and becoming a successful doctor.
Jo’s life changes when he meets a young woman named Grace, who has been sent to the island to recover from tuberculosis. They quickly fall in love, but their relationship is frowned upon by the local community due to their different backgrounds.
As Jo works hard to become a doctor and win over Grace’s family, he uncovers a dark secret that threatens to tear them apart. Will Jo and Grace be able to overcome the obstacles in their way and find happiness together?
- Themes: Love, overcoming obstacles, family
- Main characters: Jo, Grace
- Setting: Hawaii, 1920s
If you’re a fan of romantic dramas or movies with a beautiful backdrop, then Running for Grace is definitely worth checking out. With its heartwarming story and stunning scenery, this film is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
The Inspiration Behind the Film
Running for Grace was inspired by a true story that took place in Hawaii in the 1920s. The film’s director, David L. Cunningham, learned about the story from his wife’s uncle, who had grown up in Hawaii and heard the tale from his grandfather.
The film tells the story of Jo, a young orphan who was abandoned as a baby and raised by a Japanese family in Hawaii. Jo falls in love with a girl named Grace and begins a journey to find his identity and place in the world.
The inspiration behind Running for Grace came from the real-life experiences of people who faced discrimination and struggled to find acceptance in a society that was not always welcoming.
The film’s message is one of hope, resilience, and the power of love to overcome even the most challenging obstacles.
Who Stars in Running for Grace?
Matt Dillon plays the lead role of Dr. Richardson, a respected physician and the adoptive father of the film’s protagonist, Jo.
Jim Caviezel portrays the character of Chief Shipman, a man who takes Jo under his wing and helps him navigate life in the town.
Ryan Potter stars as Jo, the film’s main character who is half-Hawaiian and half-white, and falls in love with a girl from a different social class.
Olivia Ritchie plays the love interest of Jo in the movie, the daughter of a wealthy plantation owner.
Juliet Mills plays the role of Sister Anna, a nun who provides guidance and support to the people in the town, including Jo.
Lead Actors and Actresses
Ryan Potter stars as the film’s main character, Jo, a mixed-race orphan who falls in love with the daughter of a wealthy plantation owner. Potter is best known for his role as Gar Logan in the DC Universe series “Titans” and for his voice work as Hiro Hamada in “Big Hero 6.”
Matt Dillon plays Dr. Lawrence Hargrave, a physician who takes Jo under his wing and teaches him about medicine. Dillon has been in the acting business for over 30 years and has appeared in films such as “Crash,” “There’s Something About Mary,” and “Wild Things.”
Olivia Ritchie portrays Grace, the daughter of the plantation owner who falls for Jo. This is Ritchie’s first major film role, having previously appeared in the television series “Hawaii Five-0.”
Jim Caviezel plays William “Bill” Skerritt, a man who takes an interest in Jo’s well-being and helps him on his journey. Caviezel is best known for his portrayal of Jesus in the 2004 film “The Passion of the Christ” and for his role as John Reese in the television series “Person of Interest.”
Juliet Mills plays Mrs. Pettibone, the owner of the orphanage where Jo was raised. Mills is a veteran actress who has been in the business for over 60 years, appearing in films such as “Avanti!” and the television series “Nanny and the Professor.”
Is Running for Grace Family-Friendly?
If you are looking for a heartwarming and uplifting family-friendly movie, Running for Grace might be a great choice. The film has a PG-13 rating, which means some content may not be suitable for children under 13, but it still has many positive qualities that make it a great movie for families to enjoy together.
Romantic Themes: Running for Grace is primarily a love story, so there are some romantic themes in the movie. However, the romance is portrayed in a tasteful and respectful way that is appropriate for older children and teenagers.
Violence: There are a few scenes in Running for Grace that involve violence, but they are not graphic or overly intense. The violence is mostly implied or happens off-screen, so it is not likely to be too upsetting for younger viewers.
Mature Themes: Running for Grace deals with some mature themes, such as loss, grief, and discrimination. However, these themes are handled in a way that is respectful and appropriate for older children and teenagers.
Overall: While Running for Grace is not a movie for young children, it is still a great choice for families looking for a heartwarming and uplifting story that can be enjoyed together. As always, parents should use their discretion when deciding whether or not to watch the movie with their children.
Evaluation of the Film’s Rating
Running for Grace has a PG rating from the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), indicating that it is generally suitable for all ages, but some material may not be appropriate for children.
The MPAA describes the movie as having mild violence and language, and some thematic elements. However, it is important to note that every family has different standards for what is considered appropriate for their children to watch.
Some viewers have noted that the film’s themes of love, family, and overcoming obstacles make it an excellent choice for families to watch together. Others have pointed out that the portrayal of certain cultures and practices in the movie may be inaccurate or offensive to some audiences.
Ultimately, parents and caregivers should use their discretion and research the film’s content before deciding if it is appropriate for their family.
Overall, while Running for Grace may not be suitable for every family, it does offer a positive message and heartwarming story that can be enjoyed by many.
Discussion of Sensitive Themes
While Running for Grace is marketed as a family-friendly film, it is important to note that the movie does touch on some sensitive themes. Here are some things to consider before watching:Death and Violence: The movie includes some violent scenes, including a scene where a character is shot, and another scene where a character dies from injuries sustained in a violent confrontation.
Racism and Prejudice: The movie is set in Hawaii in the 1920s, a time of racial tension and prejudice towards Asian immigrants. Some characters use racial slurs and engage in discriminatory behavior towards Japanese immigrants.
Sexual Content: While there is no explicit sexual content in the movie, there are some suggestive scenes and themes. One character makes advances towards another, and there are some discussions about the consequences of sexual activity.
It is important to note that these themes are handled in a way that is appropriate for the film’s PG-13 rating, and the movie ultimately carries a positive message about love, forgiveness, and redemption. However, parents should still use their discretion when deciding whether or not the movie is appropriate for their children.Despite these sensitive themes, Running for Grace is a well-crafted film that explores important themes of love, hope, and forgiveness. The movie’s beautiful setting and powerful performances make it a worthwhile watch for those looking for an uplifting and thought-provoking film.What Themes are Explored in Running for Grace?
Love and Relationships: The film explores the theme of love in its various forms, including the romantic love between Jo and Grace, the paternal love of Doc, and the filial love of Jo and Kipapa towards their respective families.
Identity and Belonging: Running for Grace also delves into issues of identity and belonging. Jo, being of mixed heritage, struggles to find his place in a society that values racial purity. His journey to discover his true identity and to reconcile his two worlds forms the backbone of the film.
Cultural Differences and Prejudice: The film portrays the cultural differences between Jo’s Japanese and Hawaiian heritages, as well as the prejudice that both Jo and Grace face from their respective communities. This theme highlights the difficulties of living in a society that values conformity over individuality.
Forgiveness and Redemption: The theme of forgiveness and redemption is also explored in the film, particularly in the character of Doc. His journey towards redemption and forgiveness for his past mistakes serves as a catalyst for Jo’s own growth and transformation.
Love and Romance
Running for Grace explores the theme of love and romance through the relationship between Jo and Grace. The two fall in love despite their different backgrounds and the challenges they face. Their love story is portrayed as pure and genuine, with a focus on their emotional connection rather than physical attraction.
The film also touches on the idea of love and sacrifice, as Jo is willing to risk everything for the woman he loves. He shows his devotion to Grace by standing up to his father and the community, even if it means facing persecution and exile.
The theme of second chances is also present in the film, as both Jo and Grace have experienced heartbreak and loss before finding each other. Their love provides them with hope and a new beginning, showing that love can conquer all.
Racial Tensions and Discrimination
Running for Grace explores racial tensions and discrimination in a way that is both subtle and powerful. The film is set in Hawaii in the 1920s, a time when Japanese immigrants faced significant discrimination and prejudice.
The main character, Jo, is a Japanese immigrant who falls in love with a white girl, and their romance is met with hostility and violence from the white community. The film also highlights the tensions between the Japanese and Portuguese communities in Hawaii.
The theme of discrimination is further explored through the character of Doc, a black man who is treated as a second-class citizen and is subject to violence and prejudice. The film portrays the impact of discrimination on the lives of individuals and the communities they belong to.
The film ultimately shows that love and compassion can triumph over prejudice and hatred. It portrays the importance of respecting and valuing diversity, and the need to challenge discriminatory attitudes and actions.
Self-Discovery and Redemption
Running for Grace explores the theme of self-discovery and redemption through the character of Jo, a young half-Japanese, half-Hawaiian orphan who is struggling to find his place in the world.
As Jo embarks on a journey of self-discovery, he learns about his family history and heritage, and gains a deeper understanding of who he is and where he comes from.
Through his interactions with the people he meets along the way, Jo also learns about forgiveness, compassion, and the power of second chances. These experiences help him to find redemption and to reconcile with his troubled past.
Is Running for Grace Based on a True Story?
Running for Grace is a fictional film inspired by true events. While the characters and plot are not entirely based on real people or events, the film draws on historical and cultural elements of Hawaii in the 1920s.
The story of Running for Grace was written by David L. Cunningham, who was inspired by the experiences of his own father, a physician who practiced medicine in rural Hawaii in the early 1900s.
The film features many cultural and historical references that reflect the complex and diverse history of Hawaii, including its indigenous Hawaiian population, Japanese immigrants, and the influence of American colonialism.
Despite being a work of fiction, Running for Grace offers an immersive and authentic glimpse into the past, providing insight into the struggles and triumphs of the people who shaped Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage.
Explanation of the Film’s Inspiration
Hawaiian Culture: Running for Grace is a story inspired by the history and culture of Hawaii. The film’s director, David L. Cunningham, grew up in Hawaii and was fascinated by the state’s rich cultural heritage.
True Story: While the film is not a true story, it was inspired by the real-life experiences of people living in Hawaii during the early 20th century. The movie’s main character, Jo, was based on a real person who faced discrimination and injustice due to his ethnicity.
Romantic Love: The movie also drew inspiration from classic romantic films such as Casablanca and The African Queen. The love story between Jo and Grace is a central theme in the film, and it is inspired by the timeless notion of love conquering all.
Redemption and Forgiveness: Another theme that inspired the movie was the idea of redemption and forgiveness. The film’s characters all face challenges and make mistakes, but they ultimately learn from their experiences and strive to make things right.
Dramatic License and Creative Liberties
The film Running for Grace is based on true events, but like many movies inspired by real-life events, it takes some dramatic license to make a compelling story. The filmmakers have taken some creative liberties to make the story more cinematic, which can sometimes lead to changes from the actual events.
For example, in the film, the character of Jo reveals that he is half-Japanese, half-Hawaiian, while the real-life person the character is based on was fully Japanese. This change was made to highlight the racial tensions in Hawaii at the time. Similarly, the film’s climax takes place during a volcanic eruption, which did not actually happen during the events that inspired the movie.
While some viewers may take issue with these changes, it’s important to remember that Running for Grace is a work of fiction inspired by true events, rather than a documentary. The filmmakers have taken artistic liberties to create a more engaging and impactful story, while still staying true to the spirit of the events that inspired it.
Real-Life Parallels and Themes
While Running for Grace is not based on a specific true story, it draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of people in Hawaii during the early 20th century. The themes explored in the film, such as racial tensions, discrimination, and the struggle for identity and acceptance, reflect the challenges faced by many individuals during this time period.
The film’s portrayal of the Japanese immigrant experience in Hawaii also has real-life parallels, as Japanese immigrants faced discrimination and prejudice in Hawaii and elsewhere in the United States during the early 1900s.
The character of Doc, who serves as a mentor and father figure to Jo and Grace, is based on a real-life doctor who practiced in rural Hawaii during the early 1900s. His dedication to helping the community and providing medical care to those in need is reflective of the values and spirit of many real-life individuals who lived in Hawaii during this time period.
Where Can You Watch Running for Grace?
If you’re interested in watching Running for Grace, you’re in luck because there are several options available to you. The movie is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, so if you have a subscription to that service, you can watch it there.
You can also rent or buy Running for Grace on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Vudu, and Google Play. Rental prices start at around $2.99, and purchase prices start at around $9.99, depending on the platform you choose.
If you prefer physical media, you can purchase the Running for Grace DVD on Amazon or Walmart. The DVD includes special features such as a behind-the-scenes featurette and deleted scenes.
Lastly, Running for Grace occasionally airs on television networks such as Lifetime and Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, so you may want to check your local listings to see if it’s scheduled to air anytime soon.
Streaming and Rental Options
If you’re interested in watching Running for Grace, there are several streaming and rental options available:
- Amazon Prime Video: Running for Grace is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video with a Prime membership. If you don’t have a Prime membership, you can rent or purchase the movie on Amazon.
- iTunes: Running for Grace is available for rent or purchase on iTunes.
- Google Play: Running for Grace is available for rent or purchase on Google Play.
Additionally, you can check with your local cable or satellite provider to see if Running for Grace is available for on-demand viewing. Some streaming services, such as Netflix and Hulu, do not currently offer Running for Grace as part of their subscription packages.
Purchase and DVD Availability
Amazon: Running for Grace is available for purchase or rent on Amazon in DVD and digital format. You can also buy the DVD on the website.
Target: You can purchase the DVD at Target’s website or in-store. The movie is also available for online streaming through the Target website.
Walmart: Running for Grace is available on Walmart’s website for purchase or rental in DVD and digital format. You can also find it in-store in the DVD section.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the plot of Running for Grace?
Running for Grace is a romantic drama set in the 1920s in Hawaii, where an orphan boy, Jo, falls in love with a privileged girl, Grace, while working for a local doctor. The two are separated due to their differences in social status, but Jo embarks on a journey to reunite with Grace.
Is Running for Grace a faith-based movie?
While Running for Grace has elements of Christianity, it is not necessarily a faith-based movie. The film explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and love, but it does not overtly promote or push any religious agenda.
Does the film contain any religious symbolism?
The film contains subtle religious symbolism, such as the use of stained glass windows and church bells, which adds to the overall aesthetic of the film. However, these elements are not central to the plot or message of the movie.
Are there any overtly Christian characters in the movie?
While there are characters who mention or allude to Christianity, there are no overtly Christian characters in the movie. The characters are multi-dimensional and their beliefs are not the sole focus of their characterization.
How does Running for Grace approach its themes of love and redemption?
Running for Grace approaches its themes of love and redemption with a gentle touch, allowing the story and characters to speak for themselves. The film highlights the transformative power of love and the importance of forgiveness, while also acknowledging the challenges and complexities of relationships.
Who would enjoy watching Running for Grace?
Running for Grace would appeal to those who enjoy romantic dramas, historical films, and stories that explore themes of love and redemption. The film’s beautiful scenery and strong performances make it a compelling watch for a wide range of audiences.