Time Changer is a sci-fi film from Trinity Broadcasting Network. It’s a movie whose intended purpose is debate and proselytizing. For those who are interested in Christian concepts, it’s fairly well done and definitely sparks food for thought. For the rest, most will find it too heavy handed.
D. David Morin stars as Russell Carlisle, a Bible professor from 1890 who believes that morality can indeed exist outside religion. He writes a book, “The Changing Times”, positing this theory, and finds many in his community receiving it with open arms. But one of those it offends is Grace Bible Seminary board member Norris Anderson (Gavin McLeod, who still can’t get out from under the Love Boat). Anderson tries to persuade him to his point of view, and eventually shows him his time machine, challenging him to go forward in time to find a time when his theories prove true or to see what they have wrought.
The movie follows Carlisle’s astonishment and horror at what the world has become: spiritually apathetic. That part is hard to argue with. He’s surprised to learn that the people he encounters are by and large personally moral, yet the society as a whole is irreverent, loose, and without an anchor. Predictably the missing anchor is Christianity. The year 2000 is a world without respect – for parents, each other, or God. Carlisle struggles to make things right.
Considering its budget, Time Changer does a decent job with the cinematography. Morin overacts some, but his part is nevertheless convincing. Hal Linden (Barney Miller) does an admirable job as the head of the 19th century schoolboard that rejects Carlisle’s work, and comedian Paul Rodriguez carries his part as a repentant sinner well. Where the movie fails to live up to its potential is with the story line. It’s too heavy for most non-Christian viewers, though it’s a good conversation starter for those whose children are mature enough for debate.
Julie’s Rating: 3 stars
MPAA Rating: PG —
Cautions: From a theologically conservative Christian viewpoint —
Appropriate for: Children old enough to grapple with spiritual debate