Watch and cry. I plan to add it to my collection of videos. I can't wait until it's release to see it again. You don't need millions to appreciate this. [1], DVD sales were $9.55 million in the first two months following its release. You know, up there. Her impending death has apparently yielded a relationship with God, and shes thinking about heaven. With the exception of Drew Fuller (who is a poor man's Robbie Benson) and most of the family, the cast does a pretty decent job of playing the script straight. Some things were unexpected even if the ultimate ending wasn't that much of a surprise - one of the main clues lacked subtlety. His acting in this movie was very uneven, sometimes he seemed to be somewhere else and completely lost the interest in playing that Jason role, but sometimes, he seemed to merge himself into that role, he got no feeling at all to this character and lacking a convincing acting talent to play this role; in summary, a very bad and non-talent actor. No close up shots of him sweating. The reason I watched this movie was because of it's score on IMDb, which is very misleading. Great movie to show kids to teach what matters most in life. In the end, Jason gave so much, and in return, did receive the ultimate gift. Red gives him the Ultimate Gift if he follows Red's instructions. The Ultimate Gift Although cynics likely will reject The Ultimate Gift as warmed-over Capra-corn this predictable but pleasant drama based on Jim Stovalls popular novel may be prized by those. As Jason gradually emerges from a cocoon of wealth and privilege, he begins to see his hated grandfather Howard "Red" Stevens from a different perspective and learns the truth behind his altruistic, loyal, and hardworking father's mysterious death in a South America jungle. When Jason goes to visit her in the hospital, he finds her in the Red Stevens Wing. Not the VFXs or anything like that attracted to this movie. [1][2], The film's DVD sales were quite high in relation to its theatrical receipts and it continues to be a success in DVD sales and on television. Its clear that what Jason did was illegal, but its brushed aside and played off as one last weird prank on him by Hamilton before he receives his inheritance. It is all a bit obvious, but pleasant enough. Dreams. However, it was interfered by the flamboyant engine of his grandson that showed up late, Jason Stevens. There was the extremely cute kid who also happened to be dying. Then he meets Emily and her mother Alexia. It is poorly acted on the whole (apart from Abigail Breslin, she is quite clearly going to be a star), has many plot holes and a very weak script. Uplifting and positive, though sometimes predictable, "The Ultimate Gift" is the story of how one young man learns to live his life in a valuable, unselfish way. The Ultimate Gift is a very mediocre movie. What gift was Jason learning about on the ranch. All in all a bad movie. Back in the city, Jason learns that he's now out of credit. Hamilton being informed of the death of his long-time friend and colleague Howard Red Stevens James GarnerAt the reading of his will Jason Reds grandson learns that his grandfather has a gift for him the ultimate gift but only if he can complete a. Truly, the ULTIMATE gift indeed. This is what disappoints me about good clean movies, they don't receive enough publicity. The story revolves around Jason Stevens (Drew Fuller) and the tasks he must complete to receive the inheritance of his grandfather, Red Stevens. Lots of butterflies. But she also tearfully admits, I think theres something basically unfair about a person dying. Jason reassures her, You know, I dont know much about God or Jesus, but I can promise you that those arms are meant for you.. How do the various secondary characters -- his materialistic mother, the "bum" who steals in the park, the "amigo" in Ecuador -- help Jason learn his lesson? Drew Fuller (Jason) should most certainly not be working in the acting businesshe badly overacts throughout the movie, creating a mediocre effect to the movie right off the bat. That's all I can really sayif you like drama/chick flicks with a somewhat good moral, you might check this one out. There hes met by an old rancher friend of Reds named Gus. Jasons ultimate redemption is never really in doubt, no matter how hard he fights it at the beginning of the journey. This is definitely a film of hope and ultimate redemption. [13] Other songs include "Gotta Serve Somebody" by Bob Dylan, "The Thrill is Gone" by B.B. Emily and Jason aggress to tell Mr. Hamilton that they are close friends and they expect to continue the friendship forever. On his mission trip, he was presented with the gift of problems and bravery. This simple little movie has a magnificent story of discoveries, friendship, family values, redemption and love, supported by awesome performances highlighting the girl Abigail Breslin, whose witty dialogs make the viewer laugh and cry. They are repeated, named, and illustrated with film clips. It starts with the gift of work and ends with love. It was inspiring--not in its religiosity but in its morality. I kept waiting for them to explain that. There were dreams. It has a message about a young man who has to find out there is more to life then money, that being apart of a family who loves you is the most important thing in life. By giving her and her mother time, money and help, he discovered what he wanted to do. Long estranged from his grandfather, Jason is certainly put out by the tests he is forced to endure for his unknown share of the estate. She's outspoken. Thanks to everyone involved in getting this film to the big screen. Jason Stevens hasn't worked a day in his life and just expects to have life fed to him a a silver platter. The continuity was horrible. Butthis movie is one of the worst pieces of garbage I've ever seen. Red seems to have held out hope for his grandson Jason, however. Bottom line is this: the only way you might find this movie entertaining is if you fit into on of three categories. He kept asking Emily what her dream was. This is too bad because it does have a good message and it tells an inspiring story. Gone in the bat of an eye are all his cars, property, money etc. At the reading, or more appropriately, the viewing, of the will, Red says that in order for Jason to get his inheritance, he'll have to work for it. I am sure if those types of films were not made, they would not be missed and the whole country would be better off. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. However, it was interfered by the flamboyant engine of his grandson that showed up late, Jason Stevens. This is an unexpectedly well made and entertaining movie; with more such films promised. Or, will he go back to his playboy lifestyle? John. When Red dies Jason shows up late for the funeral and makes a scene when he does show. Bererti sekiranya lelaki tersebut ingin kembali bersama bekas isterinya dia diwajibkan untuk melamar dan menikah semula dengan bekas isterinya itu. I, on the other hand, found this film's plot to be too contrived and irksome. Individuals should beware that the story does stray from the book, but it only serves to enhance the storyline. A pleasant diversion, but not classic in any sense. People who have had every advantage and somehow the spoiled rich kid turns his moral compass around. I mean, the acting is alright and everything, but something about it just doesn't for it for me. The angles and pans failed to inspire me as they should. McKay gives it a freshness by presenting each gift Jason takes on in an episodic manner,which allows the boiled Melodrama to be mixed in with sweet comedy that keeps the flow smooth,as Jason gets caught up in guerrilla warfare! Luke 12:33, Acts 20:35, 2 Corinthians 8:7, 2 Corinthians 9:7, James 2:14-17 and 1 John 3:16-18, among a host of other scriptures, all prod believers to share the wealth. She is a parishioner at St. Pius X Church, Conyers. He uses it to create a state-of-the-art medical facility for families experiencing severe health challenges. The movies strong stewardship message implies that he has become someone wholl use his resources to benefit othersand that viewers should go and do likewise. As the story goes on, it goes through a series of events, or a timeline, where the main character tells the story of what had happened during that time period on his quest for the regalia. But having seen quite a few "Christian" movies I guess my review isn't much of a surprise to me. The whole thing seemed to be a lot of different situations all pasted together rather than the flow of a whole story. Strange that it has an over 7 average rating here, a nearly 5 star rating on Netflix! THE ULTIMATE GIFT follows the travails of 24-year-old Jason Drew Fuller a selfish trust-fund kid who arrives late for his grandfather Red James Garners funeral then complains at the reading of his videotaped the will. A wealthy man Red Stevens (James Garner) has amassed a fortune, turning his personal life into a shambles in the process and producing a family of greedy ruthless gluttons - with one exception: one son rebelled and lost his life to dreams despite the aspirations of the father. In an intense sequence, Jason is manhandled and blindfolded by them, and he thinks he is going to be killed. His grandfather, through a series of video messages, reveals to Jason that he has left him what he calls the "ultimate gift", but Jason must first complete a series of tasks to show his worthiness. He is tasked to find a friend. The acting is wooden, predictable, forgettable. I have even encouraged friends to see it. Start a grassroots campaign and let people know that these films exist. I really enjoyed this movie!! The Ultimate Gift, a drama directed by Michael O. Sajbel and released in 2006, tells the story of a thoroughly spoiled and rebellious man Jason, whose dying grandfather decides to put him through a series of obstacles, leading to what he calls 'the ultimate gift'. No anger, no sense of accomplishment both in the fence post work but also in the lesson he was learning. This is my sleeper pick of the season! he finds out that she died, and he comes up with the idea for Emily's Home. melodrama? This film deals with the universal quest for finding real happiness. Hence, it is quite understandable that Jason, showing little concern, storms out of the will-probate office when he learns when Grand Daddy has not left him any outright money in his will. Without using anything crass, it gives you a message that is gritty and real. However it was a good movie. director of photography Film Editing by Scott Chestnut Casting By Mitzi Corrigan Beverly Holloway Production Design by Stephen Storer Art Direction by Linden Snyder Usually its wine. Instead, however, Jason must set out on a . First is the Gift of Work as he's forced to dig fence posts for Gus (Brian Dennehy). When his industrialist grandfather Red Stevens (James Garner) dies, the various family member are disappointed by their inheritance dispersed by Mr. Hamilton (Bill Cobbs) and Miss Hastings (Lee Meriwether). True, he doesn't see it through, but even so I felt so let down by Jason's behaviour at that point that this movie ultimately comes across as mediocre. Jason finds himself working odd jobs, spending a month as a farm-hand, befriending a woman and a sick daughter, traveling to Ecuador to help a village, and escaping hostile militants, and lastly, inheriting $100 million. My mom and I saw this movie today and we both thought it was great. It had a very special plot and took me a while to fully understand the meaning the film gave. Jason not only fulfilled, For a Literary Analysis, I have done the story What You Pawn, You Will Redeem by Alexie Sherman. What happens if Jason is too much trouble. He strongly resents his grandfather because his father had died while working for him. Jason's grandfather "Red" dies and in his will he leaves Jason a series of "gifts." The Ultimate Gift is based on one-time Olympic weightlifter Jim Stovall's book. With James Garner Bill Cobbs Lee Meriwether George Lee. Why did Emily keep the body of her father. It tries to preach the ideas of love and acceptance and has the happy ending that seems mandatory for all American dramas Jason falls in love with the girl's mother and ends up owning a company that is worth billions of dollars. This would be a fairytale. Upon completing his twelve tasks, Jason is given a sum of $100-million to do with whatever he pleases, and all of his property is returned to him. Some parts of the movie and unfeasible and highly unlikely. Had a strong, clean, message. As Jason's life begins to embark on an uncharted journey, he eventually sees how money plays an important role in life. That aside, the film was terrible! Please recommend to friends. The lawyer reading the will is Reds best After the passing of Red, and the funeral, the relatives of Red Stevens congregated in a room to hear the will and what they would receive. Why did Emily poison Homers soul. For his grandchild, Jason (Drew Fuller) , Red has special and unknown plans. Abigail Breslin was just as charming and entertaining as "Little Miss Sunshine" and Drew Fuller did an an amazing job making you believe he truly went through this inspiring story. Jason a self centered person who has no respect for himself or his family. Jason Stevens in The Ultimate Gift, directed by Michael O. Sabjel, lived this lifestyle. Jasons budding friendship with Emily (even more so than his romance with Alexia) and his growing recognition of his grandfathers wisdom give the film a compelling emotional core. Like a sympathy grab for the 1%. Red Stevens (James Garner) is a crusty, old billionaire who dies suddenly in an air crash. In the final chapter of Reds character-development course, Jason is given $100 million. I am disappointed it did not receive a better advertising/marketing campaign. If you expect A level drama, I don't think it's here, but if you go with the flow, this is a thoroughly entertaining movie. This could be partially attributed to Joe Fuller's less than stellar acting, but primarily, the culprit is the character himself. This film was incredible! Jason also hits a hospital wall in frustration after Emily dies and tosses his cell phone onto the sidewalk when it quits working. This film will either make you cry or make you throw-up depending upon your religious views. Among The Ultimate Gifts other (plentiful) positive themes are the many values Red attempts to communicate to Jason via videotape. Sajbel began with the funeral of Red Stevens a very wealthy entrepreneur. It didn't have a real "message" as other much as other Christian movies I've seen recently. It was absolutely wonderful. . Don't get me wrong. Brian Dennehy as the ranch owner who teaches Jason his first lesson, Bill Cobbs as the lawyer who was also Reds best friend, and Lee Meriwether as his sympathetic and long suffering assistant all serve as strong mentors to Jason, and their performances are spot-on and a pleasure to watch. The supporting cast made the movie bearable, especially Abigail Breslin. Sajbel began with the funeral of Red Stevens a very wealthy entrepreneur. "The only honest way to earn a living is manual labor." The Ultimate Gift The Ultimate Gift The Ultimate Gift The story is all about valuing every little thing around you. He just ignored her. Perhaps building homes for the poor a la Jimmie Carter, working in a soup kitchen, being a hospital volunteer, a senior home volunteer and/or delivering meals to the ill and elderly? As the self-absorbed grandson of billionaire oil baron Red Stevens, Jason Stevens lacks nothingexcept purpose. There was so much love and so much feeling that went into this book. Again, her dialog was way too matured and way too adult, not a bit like a young kid physically weakened by terminal disease, because most of the time, she didn't look a bit sick even in her hospital bed. It was truly inspiring, heartfelt, moving, emotional, and clean. 2401 Lake Park Drive SE Smyrna, GA 30080 404-920-7430 | editor@georgiabulletin.org webmaster@archatl.com. cheers, This is a story of a very rich dysfunctional family. But what Red left him was anything but simple. When Jasons apartment is taken from him, he suggests moving in with her. Jason started alone but on the way he meets a bunch of individuals who give him valuable lessons of life. How does Emily provide Jason with a model for good behavior? It was truly a touching and inspirational movie. The Ultimate Gift doesnt always avoid these pitfalls but it does manage to choose the right mallet. In today's world, the pursuit of happiness for many is the chase for wealth, yet many rich people also find happiness alluding. Also, the plot is haywire and unsequenced. After the death of the oil tycoon. Ali Hillis is perfect for the part of Emily's mother, because she's a good actor and she's beautiful, but not so beautiful that she pushes everyone else off the screen. If we all were this sacrificial, the work would indeed be a better place. At best I see this movie as a made-for-TV Hallmark film. He could try to show her what he had learned in hopes of starting to change her too. The worst bit of the movie was definitely the whole part in Ecuador - it was pointless, added absolutely nothing to the plot and should not have been in the movie. He lauded its "tight and often compelling" screenplay, sparkling dialogue and "first-rate" production values. What appointment was Jason in a hurry to get to? It is due to this that many of the characters' decisions seem hard to believe or simply absurd. Don't waste your time. James Garner is only on screen during Reds videotaped messages to his grandson, but the always excellent actor has a strong presence. Even Abigail Breslin, of "Little Miss Sunshine" fame, ultimately sets the teeth on edge with her too-cutesy-by-half impersonation of a dying child. This is good family movie to watch with you kids, 8 years or older, who are able to grasp the concepts the movie depicts. Even the one genuine performance was lost in this disjointed production. There was nothing objectionable that I remember. He first goes to Texas where he works on his grandfather's friend Gus Caldwell's ranch for a month, learning what hard work is. Knowing as I went into the film that it was a "Christian" story, I had placed a lower ceiling on my expectations. Seorang lelaki yang menderita pemisahan kronik daripada isterinya seperti pedagang kemb. Directed by Michael O. Sajbel Writing Credits ( WGA) Cast (in credits order) complete, awaiting verification Produced by Music by Mark McKenzie Cinematography by Brian Baugh . When his grandfather (James Garner) dies, Jason expects to receive a hefty inheritance. The $30 spent on a BR disc was completely worth it.I would definitely watch this movie many more times. Several of the plot points seemed to be empty filler, useless MacGuffins. WHAT A WASTE OF TIME. Many of them are, but not the Ultimate Gift. ISBN- 9781589193574. 2.Kept me guessing. Which of us has never attended a birthday party for a 4 year old where misguided aunts, uncles and parents lavish toy upon toy on a child, reaching the child the worst values, receive a toy now, another of greater value in 5 minutes, put aside the first one now. Jason slaps two nephews who steal his smartphone. Now THE ULTIMATE GIFT comes to the screen/DVD and before making the groaning judgment that here is yet another insipid little tale about learning life's lessons and gaining some spirituality in the process, try watching this two hour traversal of well acted and well scripted (Cheryl McKay) and well directed (Michael O. Sajbel) input. Finally, I thought, an adult 'coming of age film' with a nice twist and good potential. This may be why she kept their bodies around after they died to preserve the environment she had grown accustomed to and alleviate her loneliness. He goes into rebel territory to find out what happened to his father who'd died in a plane crash. I picked this film up as a new video release not realizing that it was from the Fox Faith Collection a Christian film. We were given the DVD by my parents. Ultimate Gift Depicts Truth Of Well-Lived Life, His memory still resonates with us: Franciscan sister recalls MLKs deathbed, Pope Benedicts 2008 U.S. visit a whirlwind with timely, pointed messages. The Ultimate Gift is simply an amazing movie with a heart rendering message. Even though this film doesn't sparkle with a huge budget and sexy highly paid stars, it is a story that hits home. He appears by video, dispensing wisdom and "gifts" to his grandson Jason (played by heartthrob Drew Fuller.) Why is everything shrouded in secrecy? After the family patriarch named Howard "Red" Stevens dies, the Stevens family are convened together by Mr. Hamilton, who is his lawyer, and his secretary named Mrs. Hastings. Still have tears in my eyes!