In Deep East Texas, in a small community called Possum Trot, the year is 1996. Donna (Nika King) tells the audience about the pivotal moments of her life, including falling in love with Reverend W.C. Martin (Demetrius Grosse), getting married, and having children. More than anyone else, Donna greatly admires her mother, who cared for and loved many children. One day, while Donna’s mother is praying for her children and her family, she begins to experience chest pains and calls for help. Sadly, she passes away, and her death shakes Donna’s world considerably, leaving her emotionally devastated. Donna attempts to move forward, but stepping forward seems impossible with her anchor no longer nearby. Despite continuing to struggle, Donna speaks optimistically, stating that the Lord is always by her side, regardless of the circumstances.
One day, Donna reflects on her mother’s love and considers how she can love as her mother did. She attends an information session about unwanted young children, filled with up-to-date information about young children who are living in poverty or neglect. After God speaks to her, Donna is inspired to adopt a child, leaving her with a newfound sense of purpose. However, Donna’s husband initially disagrees due to their finances. Despite his initial hesitation, he eventually embraces the idea, feeling it’s what they are meant to do. Shortly after deciding to adopt a child, Reverend Martin preaches at church, encouraging his church to do the same. Ultimately, twenty-two children find homes with families and individuals with big hearts and hope. This movement marks the beginning of a positive change in the town and, later, the world.
Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot is a drama film. For those unfamiliar, the film is based on the true story of the township of Possum Trot. The film is directed by Joshua Weigel, whose only previous credit is a short film titled Butterfly Circus from 2009. To clarify, while Sound of Hope sounds like another Angel Studio title, Sound of Freedom (2023), Sound of Hope is not a direct sequel but rather a new chapter that once again focuses on children and the current foster crisis.
Regardless of one’s faith, it’s impossible to watch this film without being impacted by the story and the journey. I found the film’s opening deeply impactful. I felt highly emotional, especially when Donna makes significant discoveries about the many children needing a home or the many children who have suffered abuse or neglect. While predictable, the film’s second act is a necessary part of the narrative, preparing the audience for the challenges Donna, her family, and others face in their church. This includes financial difficulties and challenging behaviour from their most recent adoption. The film’s third act, like the first, ends with a clear message, and again, it’s all highly impacting, especially when viewers learn of the outcomes and how the real-life characters are progressing in the present day.
Overall, this film has a similar theme and vibe to Sound of Freedom and focuses on children of God, but in a different area. Instead, this is the story of the many homeless and neglected children worldwide and how one church family decided to unite to make a considerable impact. The true story is not just impacting drama; it’s also a testament to what can occur with even a tiny amount of faith and, more importantly, hope. This film successfully moved me to tears, especially during the plot introduction and the powerful, touching finale. The predictability of the second act, showing struggles faced by the main characters, seemed inevitable. The heavy-hitting, touching performances and gripping story made Sound of Hope a compelling watch. Regardless of one’s beliefs, this film is a highly encouraging and well-displayed drama that tugs at the heartstrings.
Australian release date for Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot (2024) is TBA*
8.1/10
2nd July 2024
Written by Peter Walkden
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