Into Temptation

Inspiring, thought-provoking, and witty
This is one of those rare films that creatively blends a serious, potentially depressing topic, with smart dialogue, heart-warming characters, and a sense of humor that draws you into the film. If you like to have everything all tidy and sewn up for you at the end of a movie, then this may not be for you. But if you enjoy a movie that leaves you wanting more and invites you to engage in conversations with your fellow viewers, then you will love this movie. I was also very impressed with how deftly the script, and the acting, managed to create characters that avoided being what could easily have been time-worn stereotypes, and instead made them realistically complex and inspiring.

Insightful and compelling character-driven movie
"Into Temptation" is one of those movies that I will watch again to get the other hidden meanings underlying the story, and this is a complex tale that explores myriad issues. Jeremy Sisto plays a Catholic priest in a poor parish, Father John who hears a disturbing confession from a troubled woman, prostitute Linda (Kristin Chenoweth). Linda relates her sexual abuse at the age of 12 by her stepfather, and other intimate details before proclaiming her intent to kill herself on her birthday. Instead of granting her absolution, John tries to get more details from Linda (who does not identify herself in the confessional, and the only thing John glimpses is her crucifix and the sound of her unique sultry voice) but she leaves suddenly, and John is left feeling tormented and guilty, obsessed with finding her and helping her before its too late.

There are basically two main parallel story lines, as John's harried attempts to find Linda plays alongside Linda's methodical approach...

Do You See the World as a Glass Half Full or Half Empty?
The opening scene for "Into Temptation", a leap back in time for the character played by Kristin Chenoweth, may break your heart. This suspenseful movie introduces us to a variety of inner-city characters, foremost of whom is Father John, priest of a poor parish church that is still serving as their lifelong support for older members of its congregation. However, there is a world of trouble for many inside and outside its doors. Father John finds himself confronting, and ultimately becoming a part of the seedier side of life in his driven and frantic quest to save a life. Your reaction at the end of this film will answer the above question for you.

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