Left Behind

Alex Panida
Campus pastor at New Hope Leeward (Kapolei)

Where and with whom did you see the movie?

I saw the movie at Mililani Theaters with Mike Soraoka.

Overall, what did you think?

I think the movie was great — family friendly, decent amount of action for a PG-13 movie. Strong emphasis on family relationships.

Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes?

It’s got to be when the dwarf guy (played by Martin Klebba) goes digging through the other passenger’s bag, and the peculiar “item” that the passenger uses to hold up the dwarf.

On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film?

I would rate it ★★.

The acting seemed very “plastic” throughout the movie. Many lines were cliché, and there weren’t many moments where I was left wondering what the character would do/say. When a movie is too obvious, it loses its fun.

What did you think of the cinematography?

Most of the film had a very clean look to it. There were a few scenes the director got artistic and used things like the sun to create emotional feel. Some of the scenes that relied heavily on cinematography looked fake (explosions and crashes, mostly). There were some shots that were filmed by a drone or some flying camera, and they were rather shaky.

Was the message/theme clear?

Message was super clear — almost a little bit too clear: God is coming; cherish your loved ones.

To whom would you recommend this movie?

Any church-going individuals or families. Those of non-religious background may find this movie thought-provoking, too.

Did any of the actors stand out?

The news reporter guy (Buck Williams, played by Chad Michael Murray), Chloe’s (played by Cassi Thomson)

new “friend.” He had a subtle sense of comfort in front of the camera. He seemed very natural and easy to watch.

Did the soundtrack contribute significantly to the film?

It didn’t stand out.

Would you buy this movie when it comes out on DVD?

Probably not. It’s definitely a “wait for Redbox” if you really want to watch it.

What’s your favorite movie snack?

My favorite movie snack is a strawberry/Pepsi mix Icee.

On a different note, what’s new with you?

On the side, I have just started helping my wife (Darrah) with Aria Children’s Fund Water Project called Project20.

We are working with other individuals in initiating and developing a long-term water project in the Philippines, in partnership with Compassion International, with hope to provide hygiene training and water filters to communities where many children may be affected by waterborne illnesses.

For more information, visit ariachildrensfund.com and projecttwenty.org.