MARCUS CHEONG watches the film based on US Christian singer Jeremy Camp’s autobiography…
I Still Believe (AU – PG/US – PG)
In A Word: Tender
Jeremy Camp (played by KJ Apa) and Melissa Camp (Britt Robertson) in I Still Believe.
The true story of Jeremy Camp and Melissa Lynn Henning has inspired numerous hit songs and an autobiography by Camp. Based on his book, I Still Believe brings their whirlwind romance, astonishing miracles and bittersweet drama to the screen in a powerful expression of faith and love.
It’s 1999 and Jeremy Camp (KJ Apa) begins his new life in college as an earnest and ambitious young musician. Before long he is starstruck by the faith-filled Melissa (Britt Robertson). Despite her initial resistance, Jeremy pursues Melissa with daring, charm and persistence. What initially starts as a sweet story of young love takes a dramatic turn when Melissa is diagnosed with ovarian cancer. What follows is an extraordinary tale that involves the miraculous power of God and an intense struggle with faith.
“I Still Believe is not a simple romance story nor a candy-coated Christian tale. Instead, the film grapples with the far more profound question of why there is suffering in the world. The almost incomprehensible idea, that the power of God can miraculously heal some while others are lost, is explored with rare insight.”
Apa and Robertson have an undeniable chemistry. The two charismatic leads are a joy to watch as they flirt cheekily, share deeply and declare their love recklessly. There is a genuine electricity between the two that makes every one of their triumphs sweeter and their struggles all the more heart-wrenching. And make no mistake, in every viewing of this film, there will be tears – lots of tears.
I Still Believe is not a simple romance story nor a candy-coated Christian tale. Instead, the film grapples with the far more profound question of why there is suffering in the world. The almost incomprehensible idea – that the power of God can miraculously heal some while others are lost – is explored with rare insight.
It is a wisdom that could only be attained by those who have experienced both the miraculous and the tragic. Jeremy and Melissa’s story spans that expanse from the undeniable power of God to the unfathomable depths of loss and we are the beneficiaries of what they have learnt.
I Still Believe manages to straddle the difficult ground between an epic love story, inspirational faith film, tragic medical drama and triumphant musical biopic. Directors Andrew and Jon Erwin have skillfully directed all these elements to create a sum that is greater than the parts. The result is a story which demonstrates the fierce nature of true love, the peace that comes from steadfast faith, and how tragedy can lead to exquisite beauty.
