Journey to Paradise (2010) User Reviews

The Best Station this side of heaven

[bkoganbing · 5/10 · 6 December 2015]

For a film with a limited budget and a cast of players I guarantee you never heard of this Christian film is not too bad and will find acceptance with more than church audiences.

Michael Koester arrives in the town of Paradise, Wisconsin as red state a small town as you'll find in the USA. Their local radio station is a family run affair and you would kind of wonder why that would even seek help from the outside as they do advertise themselves as the best station this side of heaven.

But a little help they need in the creative department and running an independent unaffiliated station isn't easy. So Koester comes from the outside and he's got some good ideas but also mysterious ways. But it's no mystery that he's falling for Hannah Fager daughter of the station owner.

It turns out he does have a connection of sorts to the family and his professional training isn't with the electronic media. For all of that you have to see the film.

I wouldn't be surprised if some bright person doesn't plagiarize the romantic portions of the story and eliminate the overtly religious and come up with a fine romantic comedy for general release. I could see a Ryan Reynolds in the lead, a Jennifer Aniston as the female lead.

Journey To Paradise will be on the Christian circuit and it will have success there.

Great potential but fell short

[luludollygirl · 4/10 · 7 January 2011]

I am one of those freaky people who love to read the book and watch the movie. I saw the movie with a friend and then went and got the book. I want to say to Salty Earth that your heart is truly in the right place and there is great potential in your company. As a Christian, I pray for what you are doing. Journey to Paradise fell short though. I will definitely watch it again but this is one case where they should have stayed closer to the book (which is funny because I don't usually say that). I enjoyed the performances of the father, the hero and the brother. The women weren't quite as real. The foundational plot was good but some of the lapses in sequencing were really tough for the viewer. The biggest difference between the book and the movie was that it involved a newspaper as opposed to a TV station and as a girl who grew up in the kind of town where this was set, sorry the TV station didn't fly. It should have stayed a newspaper.

The sound track was amazing!!! I am not sure on the artist (I need to check that out) but that was a real treasure and the scene of them walking that was set to music was exquisite. (not sure if that was a spoiler so that is why I checked the box.) Truly a romantic Christmas scene that any girl dreams of.

Again, Salty Earth you have great potential - keep going and keep improving. You have a gift and this is a market that needs people like you to forge forward. Good luck and you will be in my prayers.

We usually love this type of movie, but this fell short. Casting failures made it painful to watch.

[DreamyOneNumber1 · 1/10 · 27 November 2016]

After reading the reviews, we had such great hopes for this film. My friends and I usually enjoy films such as this, but because of extremely poor casting of the leads, this movie fell flat. It was painful to watch. There were ten of us here. Most wanted to shut it off before it was even over. None of us can account for the reviews from others. We all agree that this movie would have worked much better had other actors portrayed the characters. The male lead, sorry to say, should consider changing occupations. He was painful to watch. We feel uncomfortable writing this review, but feel the need to save others from the pain. This is the first time in our lives any of us has ever had difficulty finding much good about a movie. It was a painful waste of time.

If you're looking for an awesome movie, try something like Secrets in the Snow which is a perfect 10.

Please, just end already.

[bhensel-73582 · 1/10 · 18 October 2018]

This movie is just awful. I've personally witnessed better acting from an empty soup can. The camera work is laughable and the writing is straight out of a 13 year old girl's diary. The entire production appears to have been shot in the basement of a local church with volunteers from a nearby Walmart. The highlight of this film is the end credits. Enjoy.

Journey to paradise

[robynroe · 2/10 · 16 May 2020]

Hi I've read some of the reviews which I think are to harsh. OK some of the acting could have been better but the movie itself the storyline was one of the best I've seen. I no from personal experience that restling with a loss is the hardest thing to deal with I lost my husband 3yrs now and I still have demons that I have to work through fighting back and forth is a struggle and as stressful but who knows what the future will bring On closing I thought the movie and the message was breath taking so well done to all you guys loved it

Horrible

[michelelee-46438 · 1/10 · 12 November 2023]

I don't know how I got through the entire movie. Well I really didn't. Played an entertaining game on my phone all about ants. Some of the worst acting I have ever seen. Or was it the writing? Or both? Don't watch to find out. The movie fell so short on so many levels. Asusde from the acting/ poor writing it had an Unbelievable storyline. Dr Joe is insane to pull something like that to begin with. Are we sure he isn't a patient that escaped?!?!?!? The smartest one was the brother. And wasn't a bad actor. Would have rather watched a movie about how he and is friend investigated Joe. Would have been more entertaining.

The truth sometimes wears a tuxedo

[iaminthevineyard · 9/10 · 11 December 2010]

"Journey To Paradise", the latest release from Salty Earth Pictures of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, based upon the book "The Christmas Edition", by Robin Shope, and soundtrack provided by RGA Recording Artist Michael Schroeder's "Postcards from the road", illuminates clearly how truth can initially be hidden right in front of our eyes. Under Steve Zambo's direction, executive producer Elizabeth Zambo, and edited by Frank Datzer, "Journey To Paradise" is truly an experience that I did not hesitate to enjoy with my family. The reality lived each day by those close to and not-so-close-to family or a personal relationship with their Creator was adeptly captured by the cast and crew. The film brought me back to the days when Christmas and interactions with those around us were as they appeared, with no hidden agendas. Stacked against legitimate, heart-wrenching facts, "Journey To Paradise" creatively, and from a Christian perspective, showcases that the truth sometimes does wear a tuxedo. Into what may appear as insurmountable to the world and perhaps a lost cause, the film weaves honor, love, suspicion, comedy, and drama into a Christmas theme that does not forget the power of forgiveness. Tasteful, earthy, and destined to become a family-favorite each year when the air is crackling with a hint of frost and possibly a snowflake or two, "Journey To Paradise" needs no prompting to make it part of anyone's holiday viewing wish list; it's destined to be a classic already on-screen in my home for Christmas 2010.

A great family movie centered on clean fun and Christian values.

[mmwent60 · 9/10 · 6 December 2010]

Why would a God who wants everyone to have an eternal home in Paradise make it hard for anyone to get there? He doesn't—which we all get to see through the journey of Lucy and Joe...

Joe and Lucy feel an immediate attraction, but their budding romance, and ultimately their faith, is tested by suspicions, secrets and guilt. After seeking the answers from the only Source they can be found, they discover redemption, purpose and true Love.

Not only is the movie focused on the two lead characters of Joe and Lucy, but the supporting cast of family and friends with their comedic relief and unwavering loyalties keeps the plot building all the way up to the surprise ending.

A word must also be made on the music sound track-—inspirational!

Just finished watching this film

[sunshinetalent · 9/10 · 12 December 2010]

A beautifully shot Christian film with a true Christian Heart. My daughter is home from College for the holidays and we sat down to watch it together. A great family movie with a sweet, sweet message. The location montage and song REASON FOR THE SEASON was our favorite. The two leads were intriguing to watch and were both very committed to their roles. It's amazing to me how much can be done and shot on an obviously modest budget. They certainly made good use of their surroundings and townsfolk which made it all the more quaint and special. Bravo Salty Earth Pictures! Bravo! You made me want to live in Paradise!

Suzanne LaRusch (Burbank, CA)

Good Story, Refreshing Characters

[Faithnhome · 8/10 · 8 January 2011]

This movie has it all. A good entertaining story, well written, clever dialog and appealing characters. It's relaxing like putting on a warm pair of slippers and settling into a cozy mid-west town for the evening. The family that owns and operates the local radio station in Paradise is getting ready for Christmas; already celebrating with employees who are more like members of the family and even adopting a new member as he happens to walk in the front door. Then things get interesting as more is learned about each character. Lucy is my favorite.. she is innocent yet has a firm knowledge of herself and her convictions which get her through a lot of confusing events. Will watch this movie with my family every Christmas !

Yes, it *can* be that simple...(and that profound!)

[marmo212-1 · 10/10 · 13 December 2010]

Journey to Paradise features the kind of story I only wish I could see more of - both in movie theaters and on television. The simple beauty of Christain faith, the profound truth of God's grace, make this movie shine. There are struggles - which will always a part of our human endeavor, but this movie demonstrates the kind of love that sees us through - both in human form, and in the form of God's mercy and salvation.

In particular, Joe and Lucy's walk through Paradise is a beautifully filmed sequence, with a great accompanying score, and great chemistry between the actors. That scene, within the context of the entire movie, felt wonderfully authentic.

Kudos to the cast and crew and producers of Journey to Paradise! I can't wait for what's next - just, please make it soon. We need much more entertainment like this!

MUST SEE Romantic Movie

[writergal-969-75567 · 10/10 · 5 February 2011]

Romance is still alive, at least it is with Lucy Collins. Now all she needs is the GUY! and the guy arrives, not to disappoint. He has grit and heart and soul. His words not only draw in the whole staff of the weather station but especially Lucy....who still waits for love, but no longer believes in it, or trusts it. But is Joe too good to be true? And he is hiding a secret.....as is Lucy. A melting pot of words, visuals, plot, setting, great acting.....phew! I got lost in the story. I came away caring about these people; a good change from my movie viewing. I don't need special effects..just a good, solid storyline and this movie has it.

A FABULOUS movie!

[mystories2009 · 10/10 · 5 February 2011]

Come along with me as we Journey to Paradise, Wisconsin. Such a nice movie that you can enjoy with your entire family. You will adore the quirky people of the news station. The town reminds me of the small town where I grew up and everyone knew each other and cared for one another. I was swept away by the sweet romance and setting. The acting is excellent and I was delighted to find that this is based on a book which I quickly bought and enjoyed just as much; perhaps, even more. The differences between the movie and the book were interesting and I am glad I read the book and saw the movie. I highly recommend this movie and book, and my friends and family will find both in their 2011 Christmas stocking. We need more family oriented movies such as this.

A Good Watch

[mandyvs-87214 · 8/10 · 7 July 2021]

This movie was a good one. It has a lovely storyline that sucks its viewer in through the end. When it's done, you will find yourself wanting more.

Sweet Romance*Hope Springs Eternal*

[armstrongvicki · 10/10 · 9 February 2011]

I love sweet romance that has heart and comedy. This movie has that along with mystery, adding more dimension. The characters are quirky and I fell in love with them! It's about journeying home to your heart and what matters in life; honesty, love, family, hope. The movie reminds me of those lovely Hallmark movies and the cute romantic comedies that are so popular these days. I feel I have found a gem in Journey to Paraduse.

Yes, hope springs eternal in Paradise, Wisconsin. This is almost like a modern film noir. So enjoyable! I suggest a warm evening at home holding a mug of hot chocolate while you watch with the people who matter to you.

Awesome Romantic Comedy

[jansenr · 10/10 · 9 February 2011]

It was awesome. I do have to admit that I am fan of independent films. I grew up seeing all kinds of films. I think Salty Earth Pictures rocked it and the cast was perfect. So believable. The formula of movie got to my heart and is emotional. The central conflict and the imperfect characters all interact beautifully. The character of Joe has a good heart but he also has a dark side. Lucy has secrets of her own and she is a doll. with a heart of gold. They fall in love but circumstances pull them apart.

The movie is formulated around a specific central premise (i.e. with this film it's Joe's lies piling on top of lies) supported by extremely strong, side character performances. It surpasses other movies in the same romantic comedy genre like, He's Just Not That Into You and Just Go With It. By the way, the actress who plays Lucy is a better actress than Aniston.

The dialog is extremely well balanced with perfectly timed and executed emotional moments. Well done.