Review of Blue Like Jazz (2012) by Joel L — 12 Apr 2012

I was able to see this movie at the premier last night and it is incredible.

FINALLY a person claiming to have faith in his/her god has the balls to say "I don't have all the answers".

I really enjoyed seeing how these characters were drawn from real life and honestly portrayed in a movie. Of course this is an adaptation of Don Miller's life and the story is crafted so events are added and changed. These twist in the story do not take away from the raw vulnerability of the biography that the movie is based on.

There are real issues such as the discrimination of gay/lesbian that are shown in the film without caricatures or stereotypes. The damage of sexual abuse by clergy is handled with care and not swept under the rug. The idea that you have to vote Republican to be a follower of Jesus is exposed for the lie that it is.

It is a funny but yet heavy movie. It is both entertaining and thought provoking. The production is simple without any frills. It almost feels like a play. That only adds to the warmth and humanness of the film.

I hope this film breaks out of its limited release and is able to be enjoyed by many people.