Movie Review: Paul's Promise (In Theaters Now)

Movie Synopsis:

Set in the peak of the 1960s Civil Rights movement, PAUL'S PROMISE is the inspiring true story of Paul Holderfield, former racist firefighter-turned-pastor who started one of the first integrated churches in the American South. It's one man's journey to hope and healing during a troubled time in our Nation's history that resulted in one man's decision to serve God and stand up to injustice - a story that continues to make a huge impact on the community to this day.

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Watch the Trailer:

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My Review:

PAUL’S PROMISE steps back to the 1960s with authentic stages, behavior, and props. I loved the women’s hairstyles and fashion. From the “Beehive” to the “Bombshell” and all the hair accessories, I marveled at how women did their hair back then. All the characters possessed strong Southern accents, with a few that seemed over the top. The stages and memorabilia reflected the decade and reminded me of my grandparents’ house before it was remodeled.

Sadly, the 1960s was also a time of seated racism and the uphill fight for civil rights. Racism always saddens me, and PAUL’S PROMISE made me cry a lot. Violence against Black men and women appeared on screen several times. The term Negro is used. Powerful hatred displayed verbally and created dangerous situations. Add to that domestic violence and end-of-life issues, and the movie is a heavy one.

Yet, PAUL’S PROMISE highlights the power of prayer and the miracle of a changed heart. Again, the movie felt realistic as Paul’s mama desperately prays for her son for such a long time. Yet, it is her terminal diagnosis that finally forces Paul’s addictions, racism, and bitterness to the surface. His character change is slow to come (as is often the case in real life). At the end, I wished that the story had continued beyond the expected climax to tell more of how Paul founded a racially integrated church. I think that would have created a more inspirational feel and lightened the heaviness of the movie.

PAUL’S PROMISE is not appropriate for young viewers due to the racism, domestic violence, hatred, smoking, and alcoholism that is presented. It is a movie that brings awareness to racism of the past so that Christians can (and should) do much better today and in the future. 4/5 Stars.

Many thanks to Damascus Road Productions for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

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More about PAUL'S PROMISE:

• An encouraging film about the power of a praying mama!


• This film is based on a true story!


• Buy your tickets TODAY to see PAUL'S PROMISE in theaters starting 10/21! Tickets available at: https://paulspromisemovie.com/  ©2022 Momentum.

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Giveaway:

One reader of this post will receive a $10 Amazon gift card. US only. Giveaway ends 10/23/2022 at 11:59 P. M. EST.

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