Alec Ybarra • Director of Photography Y
This film was well-paced and the subject matter is engaging and important. The film is also an independent production based on a true story from the director's own life and you can feel the heart, effort, and love that went into the project. The integration of not only Justin and his family's struggle, but also church-hurt and faith made for a more well-rounded viewing experience. There is power in the blood of Jesus for healing and I think this film will be used to reach the right people to give them hope. Keeping in mind this is an indie film, the script and acting still will leave viewers hooked throughout the narrative and it is something that leaves an impression.
Rated 4/5 Stars •
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
02/02/25
Full Review
Kolo P
What a hard film to watch! There's no getting around the subject matter of teen suicide in this film and you are forced to engage with the gritty issue rather than just sit and be entertained by a film. Great character acting by the actors playing the mom and dad and Justin as this is very much a dialogue story. Its certainly not not the kind of film where you can put on TV and scroll through your phone at the same time - nor should it be. There are some strong scenes here and hard to watch at times but I liked the ending message that God is in control and will use pain for His good and glory always, and this helps to lift the viewer out of the heavy subject of suicide without paying lip-service to it or overly neatly packaging the ending. Overall a well done film, strong story and solid message.
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
02/02/25
Full Review
SkyRo P
I recently viewed the film "I Want to Jump," a faith-based drama featuring Eddie Minnick and several other actors I wasn't familiar with.
The plot centers around the sensitive topic of suicide, focusing on a mother, her son, and a father who are all navigating the son's struggles with his mental health. The mother is deeply committed to her son's recovery, while the father comes off as unsupportive and abrasive.
Among the three main characters, the mother, father, and son, only they seem to have any significant acting experience. The supporting cast, including the doctor and a younger character, struggled to deliver their lines convincingly, especially during emotional scenes, which detracted from the overall impact of the film.
While the film aims to convey a message of faith, it often feels more like a low-budget drama destined for streaming rather than a compelling narrative. Though it wasn't a terrible watch and had its moments, the lack of strong performances from several characters made it challenging to stay engaged.
The younger brother's portrayal was particularly weak, and both the older and younger pastors delivered performances that felt miscast. It would have benefited the film to hold actual auditions and select actors who could truly bring these roles to life.
I commend the filmmakers for tackling such a poignant topic and basing the story on real experiences. However, I wish Justin's character had been more fleshed out, allowing us to better understand his journey toward thoughts of suicide. Instead, the narrative felt somewhat flat. Overall, it's an acceptable film, but I don't see myself watching it again.
Rated 2/5 Stars •
Rated 2 out of 5 stars
11/04/24
Full Review
Kris Y
"I Want to Jump" explores the devastating impact of suicide on a young man and his loved ones. It delves into the harrowing choices and mental health struggles that often lead to such tragic outcomes. As someone who lost my husband of 22 years to suicide twelve years ago, this film touched me deeply, resonating with my personal experience of grief and the complexities of dealing with such a profound loss. The movie excels in portraying the stark reality of mental health issues, especially among teens, and the ripple effect they have on families and friends. One of the film's strengths lies in its unflinching look at how different characters cope with Justin's struggle and eventual suicide. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the raw and uncomfortable emotions, presenting a candid look at the confusion, anger, guilt, and sorrow that follow such an event. This honest depiction is both the movie's greatest strength and its most challenging aspect. For viewers like myself, who have walked a similar path of loss, the film can be a deeply cathartic experience, albeit a painful one. This movie is a tough but essential watch. It sheds light on the urgent issue of teen suicide and mental health, offering a narrative that is as much about those left behind as it is about the one who leaves.
Rated 4.5/5 Stars •
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
05/17/24
Full Review
DSP S
This movie goes beyond entertainment and captures a deeper personal relationship between entertainment and reality. The cast and acting engulf you to feel the connections and fears we all have yet not knowing the courage as well. This movie is a must watch for any and all who have friends and family period! It brings about a genuine appreciation and prevention.
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
03/08/24
Full Review
Patrick W
This movie deals with tragedy and grief in a straight-forward and heart-filled manner. The message is more important than the simple but competent filmmaking. A son's suicidal thoughts and tragic actions compel a faith-filled family to come to terms with their confused, conflicted, and heart-wrenched emotions. Seeing how the different characters deal with the situation is one of the strengths of this movie. Jana Lee Hamblin as the mother is especially poignant and thoughtful in her performance. More attention spent on exploring the son's compulsions might have provided more context to his situation. The story however focuses on how those who love someone deal with tragic actions beyond their control and understanding. This provides a strong dose of realism to the action and makes the story all the more poignant. It was a tough watch but sharing this story might help others experiencing a similar situation.
Rated 4/5 Stars •
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
02/18/24
Full Review
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