Saved!

Starring: Mandy Moore, Jena Malone, Macaulay Culkin, Patrick Fugit, Mary Louise Parker
Directed by: Brian Dannelly
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Comedy
2004

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: Mary (Jena Malone) and Hilary (Mandy Moore) are best friends who attend a Christian high school. During their senior year, Mary becomes pregnant, which causes Hilary to turn against her. Mary loses all her friends, but is accepted into a group of outcasts, who are more caring than the self-proclaimed Jesus-lovers Mary used to hang out with.

Review:

Tim: The positive side to this movie is that it is very different from most teen comedies. First, there is a very strong Christian theme throughout the whole movie. This will never be lumped together with the American Pie type of teen comedies. While much of the problems the main characters experience are caused by "good Christians," the Christ-focused element is still there.

The other positive is the incredible performances of the entire cast. Macaulay Culkin is surprisingly good in his role. This is the first role I've liked him in since the original Home Alone. Jena Malone is excellent as usual in an everywoman type of role. Mandy Moore is great in a role unlike her typical ones. Her character crosses into the ridiculous at the end, but I still applaud her effort to expand herself as an actress, playing the closest thing to an antagonist in the film.

Saved! also has many problems. Much of the film isn't funny or believable, especially in parts where it needs to be. It will appeal only to a small demographic of viewers. The end of the film is absurd and only highlights the film's weakest areas. However, if you are in the mood for a different film, try this one out. Just remember it is not spectacular in any way.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 6.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend:
A Walk to Remember, Life as a House, Home Alone, Almost Famous, Wide Awake