Product Description Best buddies Dustin, Albert and Mark are twelve year old boys looking forward to a summer of fun in 1970. When Dustin mows the lawn of seventy-five year old Jonathan Sperry, a man he has seen at church, a unique friendship develops. What happens the rest of this summer is something Dustin and his friends will never forget. .com A Christian family film about faith and forgiveness, The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry is a leisurely paced story concerning an elderly man who shares his faith with a young boy and how that simple act helps shape the lives of many. The movie is set in the simpler times of the summer of 1970. Dustin is a respectful 12-year-old boy who mows lawns for the neighbors, has just developed his first crush on a girl, and is spending the summer hanging out with his two good friends Albert and Mark. When elderly neighbor Mr. Sperry asks Dustin if he'll start mowing his lawn, Dustin gladly agrees, and soon Mr. Sperry begins sharing the Bible and his faith with Dustin. Before long, Dustin and his friends find themselves enjoying regular Bible study at Mr. Sperry's home. Through gentle words and engaging activities, Mr. Sperry helps Dustin and his friends discover how faith and the Bible can improve their lives, not only in the broadest sense, but also with some very specific lessons about forgiveness, problem solving, and even effectively dealing with bullying. This film delivers a wholesome message about faith and seeing things from another's point of view, but the pace is deliberately slow and the complete absence of normal preadolescent energy may well cause some contemporary viewers to lose interest. Gavin MacLeod and Jansen Panettiere give solid performances as Jonathan Sperry and Dustin, respectively, and it's great to see Robert Guillaume in a highly effective appearance as Mr. Sperry's neighbor Mr. Barnes. Bonus features include a 39-minute behind-the-scenes featurette with Gavin McLeod, director Rich Christiano, and producer Chad Gunderson; a full-length commentary with Rich Christiano and Gavin McLeod; a look at the various houses used in the film; interview footage with composer Jasper Randall; a special message from director Rich Christiano about his own faith; and contact information for related ministries. (Ages 7 and older) --Tami Horiuchi
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Review The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry is a heartwarming experience for the entire family. --Pat Boone, Actor/Singer See more
Reviews
4.8
All from verified purchases
J**B
Great clean Christen movie
Very well made. Great story and great cast. Good clean fun.
B**Y
Great story!
Very touching. I'm a dude and it still made me cry... in a good way! Lol
A**R
Gospel clearly given!
Our family with three kids who are 11, 6 and 4 all really enjoyed this movie. The acting is great, the storyline is great and the best part is that the Gospel message that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners is clearly given. How to get saved from our sin by faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and not by works, sharing that faith with others and continuing on in the faith when rejected is all in there. Our new favorite movie!
R**G
Spirit Filled Movie
I buy very few movies because if I've seen it once, I'm pretty set for not seeing it again. This one I bought several years ago though because it truly is amazing. I LOVE its focus on evangelism, eternity, and discipleship in a day and age where that is sooo sadly lost in the church. What makes this movie even more special that years later after buying it, my 6-year-old son accepted Jesus as His Savior after watching it. It is truly a wonderful, Spirit-filled, and blessed movie so get it for family, friends, and neighbors. Maybe God will lead one other precious soul to salvation through it!
G**S
Be kind to others.
I loved the simple way that portrayed how we should live.
A**R
wonderful
Great story.
S**9
Charming film; the way movies should be made
Based on a true story, this movie is a tribute to how one man's faith can affect the lives of many. It takes place in a town like 'Mayberry' back in the 1960s. There are no drugs, gangs, weapons, profanity, pedophiles, 'alternative lifestyles' or sex scenes. It's a film you should watch with your kids and grand kids. A charming movie with a message for all ages. Entertainment the way movies should be made today. If possible, I would give 10 stars!
P**R
One of the best family movies...
Our entire family enjoyed 'this movie,' and I found it to be one of the best family movies of all time.The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry takes us back to 1970 when times were simpler, but forever a need to tell others about the saving grace of Jesus Christ. The characters are very likeable and there are humorous parts dotted throughout. Here is a quick look at the main characters:Dustin is raised by his mom after his father dies. He's thoughtful and kind and always ready to lend a helping hand.Albert is a silly boy who struggles with keeping a tight reign on his tongue. He provides much comedic relief.Mark is the braniac who seems to have knowledge far beyond his years.Nick is a bully who is also being raised by his mom and who has no qualms about picking on Dustin and his friends.We also meet Bailey, a girl whose father owns the cafe and whom Dustin has a crush.Jonathan Sperry is a 75-year-old man who is active in his church and taught Mark's brother in Sunday School. He lives out his faith and allows God to use him to make an impact on the lives around him.One of the things I loved most about Jonathan Sperry's character was that he actively lived out his faith. He wasn't preachy, yet he showed real-life examples for each lesson. I especially loved the lesson where the boys had to reach the $5 bill on the picnic table. The graveyard scene is also a scene full of impact that depicts the urgency in telling others about Christ.Two of the boys in the movie grew up without fathers. What a wonderful example and mentor Jonathan Sperry was especially to those two boys. This movie had strong themes of redemption, faith, forgiveness, and kindness.This is a heartwarming film for the entire family. While not preachy, it does share an important message. There is also nothing objectionable in the movie, and I highly recommend it!I have added The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry to my Mom-Approved Family Movie list on my blog. A definite must-see and one of my favorite movies of all time!Review by Penny Zeller, Author of "77 Ways Your Family Can Make a Difference: Ideas and Activities for Serving Others."
A**R
ANYone can make a difference!
I owned this a while back, loved it, was inspired by it, watched it several times. There came a time I gave it away to someone for his benefit. Now I want to enjoy it again before giving it away to someone else to be encouraged by. It demonstrates well how anyone can influence other's lives for the good, at whatever age or stage in one's own life. No-one's useless in The Master's Hands! He has made and chosen each one of us to be His instruments of peace in a chaotic world!Enjoy Jesus enjoying YOU!Ann Turner (Huddersfield)
A**R
Very slow but worth watching
This film was so slow at the beginning that my husband and I almost gave up on it. We were glad we persevered because it got better and by the end we were very moved. The best part was finding out that it is based on a true story. We bought it to show our grandchildren (12 and 10) when they come to stay, but we are not sure they will find it interesting quickly enough to keep watching..
L**9
Charming gentle film.
This is a gentle slow moving film set in the 1970's. The story is based around three eleven year old boys across one summer holiday. One of them makes friends with an elderly gentleman called Jonathan Sperry, a Christian. The film charts the development of this friendship. There are some challenging or thought provoking moments eg. graveyard scene, as well as moments of humour, and a few surprises. The ending is moving. Beautifully made film.
F**G
A MUST FOR CHRISTIANS AND NON BELIEVERS ALIKE
This film is excellent. It not only raises an awareness within Christians but is also a fantastic outreach tool for others.I have watched this a number of times and still find something new to inspire and sharpen my Faith and recognise the need for others to hear the Gospel. The Good News!!!!!!!!Warning: When you do purchase (and please do so) make sure you have plenty of tissues for the many tears of joy and personal shame you will shed! I did in buckets and I am not ashamed to admit that! This film touched me right into my inner most depths! Please view!
I**D
Not bad
A nice little film actually and I liked this particular protagonist in the Time Machine film which was partly what drew me to it. Nothing much exciting happens and it's not the kind of film you'd want to see again in a hurry, but it was nicely done.
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Good clean fun."},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"5.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"B***Y"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United States on February 6, 2023","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Great story!\n \n","reviewBody":"Very touching. I'm a dude and it still made me cry... in a good way! Lol"},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"5.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"A***R"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United States on December 26, 2022","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Gospel clearly given!\n \n","reviewBody":"Our family with three kids who are 11, 6 and 4 all really enjoyed this movie. The acting is great, the storyline is great and the best part is that the Gospel message that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners is clearly given. How to get saved from our sin by faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and not by works, sharing that faith with others and continuing on in the faith when rejected is all in there. Our new favorite movie!"},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"5.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"R***G"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United States on December 7, 2022","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Spirit Filled Movie\n \n","reviewBody":"I buy very few movies because if I've seen it once, I'm pretty set for not seeing it again. This one I bought several years ago though because it truly is amazing. I LOVE its focus on evangelism, eternity, and discipleship in a day and age where that is sooo sadly lost in the church. What makes this movie even more special that years later after buying it, my 6-year-old son accepted Jesus as His Savior after watching it. It is truly a wonderful, Spirit-filled, and blessed movie so get it for family, friends, and neighbors. Maybe God will lead one other precious soul to salvation through it!"},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"5.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"G***S"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United States on January 25, 2023","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Be kind to others.\n \n","reviewBody":"I loved the simple way that portrayed how we should live."},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"5.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"A***R"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United States on February 4, 2023","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n wonderful\n \n","reviewBody":"Great story."},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"5.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"S***9"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United States on November 21, 2022","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Charming film; the way movies should be made\n \n","reviewBody":"Based on a true story, this movie is a tribute to how one man's faith can affect the lives of many. It takes place in a town like 'Mayberry' back in the 1960s. There are no drugs, gangs, weapons, profanity, pedophiles, 'alternative lifestyles' or sex scenes. It's a film you should watch with your kids and grand kids. A charming movie with a message for all ages. Entertainment the way movies should be made today. If possible, I would give 10 stars!"},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"5.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"P***R"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United States on July 13, 2010","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n One of the best family movies...\n \n","reviewBody":"Our entire family enjoyed 'this movie,' and I found it to be one of the best family movies of all time.The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry takes us back to 1970 when times were simpler, but forever a need to tell others about the saving grace of Jesus Christ. The characters are very likeable and there are humorous parts dotted throughout. Here is a quick look at the main characters:Dustin is raised by his mom after his father dies. He's thoughtful and kind and always ready to lend a helping hand.Albert is a silly boy who struggles with keeping a tight reign on his tongue. He provides much comedic relief.Mark is the braniac who seems to have knowledge far beyond his years.Nick is a bully who is also being raised by his mom and who has no qualms about picking on Dustin and his friends.We also meet Bailey, a girl whose father owns the cafe and whom Dustin has a crush.Jonathan Sperry is a 75-year-old man who is active in his church and taught Mark's brother in Sunday School. He lives out his faith and allows God to use him to make an impact on the lives around him.One of the things I loved most about Jonathan Sperry's character was that he actively lived out his faith. He wasn't preachy, yet he showed real-life examples for each lesson. I especially loved the lesson where the boys had to reach the $5 bill on the picnic table. The graveyard scene is also a scene full of impact that depicts the urgency in telling others about Christ.Two of the boys in the movie grew up without fathers. What a wonderful example and mentor Jonathan Sperry was especially to those two boys. This movie had strong themes of redemption, faith, forgiveness, and kindness.This is a heartwarming film for the entire family. While not preachy, it does share an important message. There is also nothing objectionable in the movie, and I highly recommend it!I have added The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry to my Mom-Approved Family Movie list on my blog. A definite must-see and one of my favorite movies of all time!Review by Penny Zeller, Author of \"77 Ways Your Family Can Make a Difference: Ideas and Activities for Serving Others.\""},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"5.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"A***R"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United Kingdom on December 31, 2012","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n ANYone can make a difference!\n \n","reviewBody":"I owned this a while back, loved it, was inspired by it, watched it several times. There came a time I gave it away to someone for his benefit. Now I want to enjoy it again before giving it away to someone else to be encouraged by. It demonstrates well how anyone can influence other's lives for the good, at whatever age or stage in one's own life. No-one's useless in The Master's Hands! He has made and chosen each one of us to be His instruments of peace in a chaotic world!Enjoy Jesus enjoying YOU!Ann Turner (Huddersfield)"},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"3.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"A***R"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 8, 2013","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Very slow but worth watching\n \n","reviewBody":"This film was so slow at the beginning that my husband and I almost gave up on it. We were glad we persevered because it got better and by the end we were very moved. The best part was finding out that it is based on a true story. We bought it to show our grandchildren (12 and 10) when they come to stay, but we are not sure they will find it interesting quickly enough to keep watching.."},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"5.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"L***9"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 14, 2012","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Charming gentle film.\n \n","reviewBody":"This is a gentle slow moving film set in the 1970's. The story is based around three eleven year old boys across one summer holiday. One of them makes friends with an elderly gentleman called Jonathan Sperry, a Christian. The film charts the development of this friendship. There are some challenging or thought provoking moments eg. graveyard scene, as well as moments of humour, and a few surprises. The ending is moving. Beautifully made film."},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"5.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"F***G"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 11, 2010","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n A MUST FOR CHRISTIANS AND NON BELIEVERS ALIKE\n \n","reviewBody":"This film is excellent. It not only raises an awareness within Christians but is also a fantastic outreach tool for others.I have watched this a number of times and still find something new to inspire and sharpen my Faith and recognise the need for others to hear the Gospel. The Good News!!!!!!!!Warning: When you do purchase (and please do so) make sure you have plenty of tissues for the many tears of joy and personal shame you will shed! I did in buckets and I am not ashamed to admit that! This film touched me right into my inner most depths! Please view!"},{"@type":"Review","reviewRating":{"@type":"Rating","ratingValue":"3.0"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"I***D"},"datePublished":"Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 12, 2014","name":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Not bad\n \n","reviewBody":"A nice little film actually and I liked this particular protagonist in the Time Machine film which was partly what drew me to it. Nothing much exciting happens and it's not the kind of film you'd want to see again in a hurry, but it was nicely done."}],"aggregateRating":{"@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":4.6923076923076925,"bestRating":5,"ratingCount":13}}
