Review of The Overnighters (2014) by 92 B — 11 Jan 2015

This documentary is gold. As the ending titles begin, you may feel that your world will never be the same. If you were raised and possibly scarred from your small, primarily Christian hometown, this film will especially hit home (pun intended).

I watched it with my boyfriend. We were both left questioning our existence. I think they call that thought-provoking. Following are samples of my own questions. My boyfriend was left with many more questions of his own.

Where is the balance between Christian love and Christian judgment? Must there be an 'us' and a 'them'? Is doing good for others in essence a selfish act? Do we recognize others' needs and fulfill them just in part to be recognized ourselves? Is the need to feel needed just the need for attention or recognition? Is it narcissistic to think we can bring positive change in others' lives? Must we realize how small we are and what our capabilities are in fulfilling others needs? When can we feel truly fulfilled in the small, local, sometimes unrecognized but integral good we do? How can we feel validated in the good we do for others without applause?

To me a great film is not necessarily one that leaves me with questions. A great film is one that does not leave me for many days. This film will surely have me thinking for a very long while.