Quickie Movie Review: "Suing the Devil"

Rated: Not Rated (Dove approved for ages twelve and up)
Starring: Bart Bronson, Malcolm McDowell, and Corbin Bernsen
Released: April 26, 2012 (DVD)

Synopsis: Luke O'Brien (Bart Bronson) is furious.  After the death of his mother and other tragedies, both personal and international, he believes someone is to blame: Satan.  When he files a lawsuit again the Evil One, everyone is surprised when Satan (Malcolm McDowell, Easy A) appears in the flesh to testify on his own behalf.  Thanks to TV news outlets, people all over the world are glued to their televisions to find out who will win this court battle.  Satan has quite a few tricks up his sleeve, but Luke is determined to win...but will determination be enough?

My Review: The production values for this are much better than usual for Christian movies! The cast is expansive; the acting is mostly great, especially Mr. McDowell's portrayal of Satan; the special effects and cinematography are well-done; and, the film doesn't shy away from showing evil in the world, yet it doesn't glorify it.  Not only that, but it really works well as a celluloid parable! What keeps it from being perfect are some cheesy parts--such as fake-looking devils that are stopped by attractive female angels--and a scene or two of poor acting, as well as a slightly slow pace.  Still, for the "inspirational" movie genre, this is definitely a step in the right direction.

Content Concerns:

• Sex: It is mentioned that the protagonist has viewed online pornography, though he is said to have repented.  In order to find Satan, the protagonist goes to a bar, where (modestly dressed) women are seen pole dancing. 4.5/5
• Nudity: A few women wear short skirts, one woman is seen in an off-the-shoulder top, and another shows a hint of cleavage. 4.25/5
• Language: Satan calls people various insulting names, ranging from "idiot" to "Bible-thumper".  The f-word is referenced, but not said.  Probably the most egregious usage of language is when the film's protagonist tells Satan, "Take it and shove it up your..." (The statement is left unfinished. 3.75/5
• Violence: Satan smacks his lawyers, and even pins one to a bench in anger.  A little girl kicks Satan.  A Satan worshiper wears a "666" shirt with blood on it. 4/5
• Drugs: It is mentioned that the protagonist's mother was killed by a drunk driver.  Drugs and smoking are mentioned briefly. 4/5
• Frightening/Intense Scenes: The character of Satan is a bit freaky, and understandably so.  Devils/demons are seen in one scene.  Add to that an emotionally intense scene, as well as the overall theme of the movie, and this is likely too much for young kids. 2/5
• Other: Some may quibble with the fact that the angels shown are women, when all the Biblical angels are male.  Also, Satan is seen burping. 4/5

Final Score: 3.75/5