Reviewed by Gareth Hills

Ok I'll admit it, I always feel a little sceptical when it comes to Christian films. There's a cynical movie snob within me that expects the usual clichés, polished sentiment, and inevitably cheesy happy ending. So, I was pleasantly surprised that The Imposter, a Prodigal Son-inspired story about Christian rock star, Johnny C, (a great turn from former dcTalk frontman Kevin Max here) who goes off the rails, had none of these things, and was in fact a remarkably well produced, acted, enjoyable, and challenging film. As the title implies, the film takes a hard, honest look at deception and the disconnection that can exist between what we say our faith is, and the way we actually live our lives. Despite the seriousness of the film's message, it never comes across as preachy or contrived, and manages to convey it with surprising depth. A particularly hard-hitting moment is when Johnny returns to church to find Kevin - his wife's brother - leading the congregation in a song about forgiveness and grace, despite the fact that Kevin never once manages to forgive Johnny in the course of the film - it raises the uncomfortable question: might we be impostors too? It's moments like these that take the film above many other Christian-produced films of recent years. A thoroughly enjoyable film, and while it probably won't win any awards or critical recognition, it remains a challenging, honest look at the modern Christian condition.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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Christian rock’s hottest band, “Grand Design” is heading to the top! Unfortunately, lead singer Johnny C (Kevin Max of dcTalk) is personally spiralling down. His nightly concert performances about Jesus are a stark contrast of his selfish lifestyle he finds himself in each morning.

At the height of his fame Johnny’s world comes to a crashing halt and thus begins a turbulent journey back home to find out if his shattered marriage can be restored. Now at odds with his long time band leader and friend James (Jeff Deyo former lead singer Sonic Flood) over his lifestyle Johnny is removed from the band.

Coached by his mentor, Proff (played by Kerry Livgren of the band Kansas) and a eccentric homeless man, Popeye (Tom Wright of World Trade Center, Barbershop). Will Johnny find his way back?