That’s not to say this work is to easy watch. The hour spent with it is not a comfortable hour, but a rewarding one as you explore the depths of human suffering and the heights of redemption through a real-life drama so laden with conflict you want to look away but can’t.

Director Laura Waters Hinson makes no effort to hide As We Forgive’s Christian themes. The title itself is an allusion to the line in the Lord’s Prayer that says, “Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.” While the focus of the story is squarely on the struggles of forgiveness, several of the subjects in the story make reference to God, God’s Word, and their faith as their source of strength and their inspiration to forgive those who have wronged them.

Many Christian film and documentary efforts fall far short of industry standards for quality and artistry. As We Forgive is an exception to this trend, representing the powerful results possible when skillful storytelling works hard and is informed by our faith. It is a model for those aspiring to craft documentaries from a Christian worldview and a treat to share with friends—believers and non-believers alike.

With all the positives, a word of caution is in order. As We Forgive depicts the horrors of a national genocide and pulls no punches. Graphic images and discussions make this a film parents will want to preview before allowing children—even older children—to view it (see Cautions below). On the other hand, it makes a thought-provoking, emotionally charged conversation-starter for older teens and adults.

Honest, gritty, and tense, As We Forgive is a well-crafted documentary that grips from the opening moments and refuses to let go. Redemptive themes abound as the film concludes that forgiveness is the key to peace. Peace with our neighbors, peace with ourselves, and peace with God.

CAUTIONS:

• Drugs/Alcohol:  Mention of drinking beer.
• Language/Profanity:  None.
• Sexual Content/Nudity:  None.
• Violence:  Descriptions and images of violence are plentiful and may be disturbing to some views. Images include: Soldiers carrying firearms. A woman shows the camera machete scars on her back and leg. Multiple graphic images of genocide victims’ dead bodies, including the bodies of children. A body floats down a river. A long distance shot of a person falling to the ground after a blow to the head. Disturbing images of human skulls and bones stacked on shelves.