‘Lifemark’ movie celebrates the gift of life

By Cheree Calhoun  |  The Catholic Compass  |  November/December 2022
(Photo provided by Lifemark)

Perhaps it is, as some critics have labeled, a “clinical train-wreck.” It is certainly not in a social worker’s handbook, nor does it comprehensively cover its deep and important subject matter. Its plot minimizes many of the complexities surrounding unplanned pregnancy, life choices and the realities of domestic adoption. Yes, those determined to view the Kendrick Brothers’ most recent movie production, “Lifemark,” through a purely institutional lens will likely feel short-changed and will surely miss out on the beauty, inspiration and restoration that the faith-based drama offers its viewers.

Ever wonder why millions of television fans can hardly wait for the Hallmark Christmas movie season? The answer is quite simple: feel-good flicks make people feel good. They restore 
a bit of hope in humanity. They remind watchers that this world really does have some good remaining. “Lifemark,” at the very least, provides a “breath of fresh air” and respite from standard negativity. It is no surprise that when film and media bombard society with reports of family dysfunction, bitterness, anger and rebellion, a movie that sheds a positive light on family and documents healthy conflict resolution will be appreciated and embraced. 

“Lifemark” is not JUST a feel-good film, however. It is also an enlightening movie that dispels some common myths regarding a widely under-represented topic — adoption. For many years, adoption seemed to be stigmatized by secrecy and shame. Birthparents felt ashamed to admit they had placed a child for adoption; adoptees felt ostracized when they shared that they were not born to their parents; adoptive parents felt “less than” when their children did not share their genes. Movies about adoption were limited to the likes of Little Orphan Annie. “Lifemark” normalizes families created through adoption by refuting three common false beliefs:
1.     Adopted children will grow up to resent birth parents.
2.    Open adoption is too scary.
3.     Being adopted is something to hide or be ashamed of.

Possibly the most positive takeaway for moviegoers 
is “Lifemark’s” ability to offer more than just lofty platitudes. Faith-based, especially pro-life, films have often been accused of being "idealistic” and even “pushy” or misleading. Critics have claimed that conservative films are nothing more than a smokescreen for religious persuasion.  This movie, however, portrays the rippling effects of one woman’s courageous decision to make a life plan for her child. The film presents a real and tangible alternate choice to abortion and follows the lives that were so positively impacted by that choice. 
Through “Lifemark,” 2022 brings the world a cinematic victory. Based on the documentary entitled, “I Lived on Parker Avenue,” the movie sheds a positive light on the faith community. It presents an awareness of adoption as a viable option for unplanned pregnancy and gives a voice to adult adoptees. “Lifemark” also provides positive family entertainment and discussion. November is National Adoption Awareness Month. What better way to initiate participation than popcorn and “Lifemark?” 

To learn more about “Lifemark,” visit lifemarkmovie.com.