We thoroughly enjoyed this movie. We have gone to other films similar to this one and have found them to be really good. There were some points early in the film that we felt they spent too much time with. We think they could spent more time elsewhere and not so much on the drinking aspect. Although the drink was a part of the character, there could have been other areas covered. We aren't writers, but we do know what entertains us and we also know what kind of message these sort of films are trying to send. Instead of the drinking, maybe they could have said something about what happened to the mother. Also they could have given us more information about Produces mom. For us the film was really good and once it comes out in DVD most likely will be purchasing it.

This is a film that will take you on an unexpected internal journey as you can't help but hope the best for the two actors born for their respective roles (Kristoffer Polaha and David DeSanctis). There is something truly authentic about WHERE HOPE GROWS that is difficult to describe, but is much deeper than the casting of this film (featuring an actor with Down Syndrome to play Produce). Perhaps the film can't help but be honest with us because it is a movie that doesn't often get a chance to screen in the theater. On this rare occasion a group of independent filmmakers and actors boldly embarked on a journey of their own, laying the infrastructure for a new road of cinema in Hollywood that appreciates inclusion, breaks down barriers, strips away stereotypes and most importantly realizes the power that motion pictures have for growing global communities that can actually bring hope to one another after the hour and thirty five minute experience. One of my favorite experiences of seeing WHERE HOPE GROWS in the theater occurred after the film concluded when I could see the pride and joy on the faces of all the families after I heard their helpless reactions to the charming performance of David DeSanctis (Produce). Chris Dowling captures subtle nuances of Louisville, Kentucky that include beautiful autumn landscapes fused with quirky mid-south cultural observations, such as the notorious high school pride banter. The cinematography and screenplay may be the closest thing to taking a sabbatical to this great region of the country. Meanwhile, such local references only personalize this universal message about life: that is that certain people can bring out the best in us, but only if we give them the time to become a part of our lives. I also appreciated there was nothing preachy about this film, despite it being labeled as a Christian movie. The friendship between Calvin and Produce is one of the realist film experiences I've had this year, and admittedly there were moments during the movie when I was embarrassed to have brought a date with me to the theater because it was far too soon in the relationship for tears. However, I regretted no tears while watching WHERE HOPE GROWS and I hope you won't miss the opportunity to see this film where it should be seen - a theater packed full of your community's best hearts and souls.Jason D'Mello

Where Hope Grows was a beautiful movie. I've watched many movies of all genres and I can honestly say that this film made my heart happy. We live in a world surrounded by negativity and to sit in a theater and experience laughing with the characters and feeling the emotions of giving up on life, only to realize that at that one desperate moment when you thought you were alone...all you needed to do was let go and let hope grow. Great storyline. Not only is this a great family movie and a reminder of the blessing of being alive, it has a message that speaks to your heart and at the same time knocks down some of the stereotypes associated with Downs Syndrome. David was amazing as Produce. The theater was filled with laughter and tears, as he delivered an unquestionably brilliant performance.

The film is heartwarming, without being sappy. It is also thought provoking, and could definitely prompt thoughtful conversations on a wide range of topics. In this day and age of Big Box Stores, Big Blockbuster Films, Huge Meal Deals, it's refreshing to see a real film, with real people, reminding us of the simple things in life. But it is by no means simple. I am still thinking about it, and the life scenarios it brings to focus. How often does that happen anymore? I submit, not often enough.This film follows the personal journey of a former high school superstar, struggling later in life, and his own high-school aged daughter, and a gem of a human being named Produce, who will make you smile. The film wholeheartedly supports the movement to end negativity and eliminate the use of the "R" word- not for trite, political correctness, but because of the humanity that connects us all.