Love's Unfolding Dream

Janette Oke's Love Comes Softly series comes to life again in the sixth installment, Love's Unfolding Dream.

Belinda, Missie's adopted daughter is determined to fulfil her dream of becoming a doctor despite the obstacles in her way. The town's physician, Doc Jackson, has a soft spot for Belinda but is dead set against her pursuing a career in medicine. When a wealthy widow falls ill, Doc has no choice but to allow Belinda to assist with her care, giving Belinda a glimmer of hope.

New York lawyer, Drew Simpson, arrives in Belinda's hometown to settle a relative's estate and discovers physical work can be just as rewarding as intellectual pursuits. Drew is intrigued by Belinda's compassion and spirit but unable to reconcile her desire to be a doctor with his belief of a woman's place in life.

Love's Unfolding Dream is a charming story and my favourite of the Love Comes Softly films. Scout Taylor-Compton is the stand out performer bringing a sincerity and vibrancy to Belinda. Despite feeling Patrick Levis was a bit youthful in his role as Drew, his portrayal of the successful young lawyer faced with a close knit country community was engaging. Robert Pine was a perfect fit as Doc Jackson and the other characters well cast. The difficulties faced by women of the time in pursuing a career let alone one in the male domain gave great substance to the story and Belinda's journey of discovery held challenges and joys. Yes, there are differences to Janette Oke's novels but if you want an uplifting film that the whole family can be entertained an encouraged by, you can't go wrong with Love's Unfolding Dream.

Available now on DVD from Amazon and Koorong (Aust)

Saving Sarah Cain ~ movie review

Frustrated by writer's block, newspaper columnist Sarah Cain (Lisa Pepper) is lacking inspiration and her neurotic boss, Bill (Academy Award Nominee Elliot Gould) demands she shape up or ship out. While pouring out her woes to her patient and devoted boyfriend Bryan, Sarah receives the shocking news that her Amish sister has passed away.

Sarah arrives in Pennsylvania in time for the funeral and meets her five nieces and nephews for the first time. Sarah is shocked to learn that she is the children's legal guardian and her self-absorbed life is about to change. Returning with the children to her modern apartment in Portland, Sarah fails to think through the implications for the grieving children. Attending school in the city, the children face new temptations and experiences, while the eldest, Lyddie (Abigail Mason) struggles to maintain their Plain ways and their deeply held faith.

As the cultural divide begins to shatter their solidarity and when a betrayal strikes deep, Sarah and the children discover that forgiveness and family are worth more than she ever imagined.

Beverly Lewis's novel The Redemption of Sarah Cain has translated well to film with Michael Landon Jr ably directing a great cast. Lisa Pepper portrays the self focused Sarah Cain well and Elliott Gould is great fun as her acerbic newspaper editor. Abigail Mason does an exceptional job as Lyddie, trying to be both mother and sister to her siblings, showing both strength and vulnerability to perfection. Bailee Madison as little Hannah, the youngest child, steals the show with her mischievous smile. The other children are engaging and despite occasions when their Amish accent wavers, they are convincing in their roles.

Saving Sarah Cain is a delightful film suitable for all the family to enjoy, celebrating the love of family and the healing power of forgiveness. The scenery is magical and the Plain life lovingly portrayed. Special features are well worth viewing taking you behind the scenes of the movie and Beverly Lewis' thoughts on the transition of her novel to film.

As seen at TitleTrakk.com