I have heard many of the messages from the movie in real life, so they are not that new to me. But there were also things that are novelties to me; such as talking to the a cardboard image of George W. Bush, discussions about social issues within the church... etc.
As far as many reviewers' fear of what would happen when these kids grown up, I have some few insights. I've been with many of these similar kids when I was young; going to Christian schools, being taught as warriors for the Lord... etc; and I've known many of them in their 20's. Some of them became atheists, some ceased going to the church, some still remained. Human are rebellious and hedonistic in nature, it is difficult to become a life-long radical in a free society. Not saying if it's good or bad, it's just human nature.
The church depicted in this movie is just an extreme form of Christianity. Welcome to the 21st century, when you think you've seen everything, think again.
As far as many reviewers' fear of what would happen when these kids grown up, I have some few insights. I've been with many of these similar kids when I was young; going to Christian schools, being taught as warriors for the Lord... etc; and I've known many of them in their 20's. Some of them became atheists, some ceased going to the church, some still remained. Human are rebellious and hedonistic in nature, it is difficult to become a life-long radical in a free society. Not saying if it's good or bad, it's just human nature.
The church depicted in this movie is just an extreme form of Christianity. Welcome to the 21st century, when you think you've seen everything, think again.