The Saratov Approach

In so many ways the film would be more interesting if it were more ambitious, but on its own terms it is surprisingly strong.

Uneven acting, some trite dialogue and several overplayed emotional beats flatten instead of round out the storytelling here.

This faith-based thriller is low-key in an appealing way, which keeps it from being too preachy or overbearing&#59; it's a simple, character-based tale that sticks close to its fact-based roots.

The final result is suspenseful, faith-promoting and very entertaining.

There's not as much suspense as the premise suggests, thanks to a bloated middle section that's more concerned with religious reflection than practical negotiation.

A riveting tale that affirms the faith of the already converted without insulting the intelligence of the skeptic who primarily wants a high-caliber movie.