For Parents: “Like Arrows” Movie Review

I recently had the pleasure of previewing FamilyLife’s first feature film, Like Arrows, which explores the hardships and joys of parenting. This movie was produced by brothers Alex and Stephen Kendrick known for “Courageous” and “The War Room”  as well as FamilyLife’s Dennis and Barbara Rainey, and Bob Lepine.

My husband and I have been parents for 6 years and we can both easily say that it is a challenging journey. Nothing compares to being a parent and no previous experience, like babysitting or nannying, can ever prepare for what we are to expect. Throughout our journey we have relied on asking family, friends and our church family for advice. That never goes away which is why I was really happy to learn about this movie.

FamilyLife and “Like Arrows”

While there are plenty of books about parenting, there are no movies really focusing on the journey of parenting. FamilyLife, an online resource for biblical help in marriage and other family relationships,  decided to release the film as part of a significant new parenting initiative called FamilyLife’s Art of Parenting™, which will also include a free online video series and an eight-session small group series.

“Like Arrows” focuses on Charlie and Alice, a couple who after dealing with conflict, rebellion, and resentment in their family, are forced to rethink their parenting strategy. In the process, they realize how critical it is being intentional. They focus then on shaping and molding the young lives that were entrusted to them by God. Through a journey that unfolds over 50 years, Charlie and Alice discover the unmistakable power of family. Together, they learn that knowing and living by God’s Word is what brings transformation and hope to any family.

My thoughts

I enjoyed the film and even thought there was a clear before and after with the parents when they realized that simply attending church and doing the best they could was not enough. They realized having accountability and being intentional by being in God’s word was essential for the whole family.

The length of the film is average to most films so the progression of events can seem rushed but I believe it is only to give an idea of what life could be after a change of perspective. I would have gladly sat through a 3 hour film about parenting if you ask me but it was clear that the parents’ change through the movie happened quickly for time’s sake. Heart change and accountability comes through time. 

There is a lot to say about the movie being realistic. It shows the challenges, the hardships, the stress between the couple, and the effects of correct parenting towards the children. It gives a hard look into many pitfalls that parents go through. Essentially I loved the fact that nothing can really happen without the father making a change.

It was not apparent that either couple were believers to begin so I would have loved to hear a little more background story or a life being rededicated to God. Either way, the head of the household starts taking a stand to be the spiritual leader in the home and it comes with accountability. 

I definitely recommend all parents in every stage of parenthood to watch this film. I was involved with every actor throughout the movie which made it believeable. Take some friends with you and some tissues because it will make you tear up in different parts. When you see parenthood through eyes of others it puts things into perspective. I am looking forward learning about the free online video series.

When does the film release?

This film is not being released nationwide and is only being released in select theaters on May 1st and May 3rd. Here is a link to check a theater near you.

Parenting Resources

If you are interested more in the new series FamilyLife’s Art of Parenting™, please check out this snippet.  There are more amazing resources from the movie and notes that parents in every stage of parenting would receive well. I know I did because I know that it is a daily journey and one that I am quickly learning time and time again that I have not control over.

Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller/FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification