{DVD Review} A Long Way Off by Word Films

A Long Way Off is a modern retelling of the story of the prodigal son found in Luke 15:11-32. The parable shares the story of two sons. One insists on taking his inheritance from his father early and going off to live the life he wants, turning his back on his family. The second son stays at home and continues to help his father. The first son ends up squandering all of his money and soon finds himself working for a farmer and eyeing the pig slops since he was so hungry. It's at that point that he decides to go home and at least work for his father for free. His father is so happy to see him he throws a party. The son who stayed home becomes jealous of all his father is doing for the son who has returned. His father tells him that all he has withheld nothing from him but that they must celebrate since the prodigal son had been dead and is now alive.

This movie does an excellent job retelling the parable set in modern times. The lead character, Jake, works on the family farm. He is tired of following his father's rules and working with his brother, Seth, so he asks his father for his inheritance early so that he can try life on his own terms. Surprisingly his father agrees to his terms and Jake heads to the city. He soon finds himself living a life full of what he thinks he wants - a high rise condo, a nice car, expensive watches, and money just rolling in from investments.

However, the bottom drops out of his world when the investments he made fail. He soon finds himself on the wrong side of a local mobster and running for his life. He is now eating of trash cans and sleeping on the streets. He is challenged to return to the home he has and he does so, not thinking he will have a good reception. Just like the story in the Bible says though, his father is thrilled to see him.

I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. I think it would be an excellent family night movie and could start some great discussion with your family. You can see a trailer of the movie below.

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