Breakthrough

Based on a 2017 book by a devout American mother, this fiercely pro-faith film asserts God, collective belief and the power of prayer were the significant factors in the miraculous survival and recovery of a teenager trapped underwater for 15 minutes after falling through the ice on a frozen lake. The feature debut of prolific TV director (and Star Trek: Voyager regular) Roxann Dawson will appeal particularly to the more religiously inclined, while the overt religiosity and unabashed Christian outlook of such faith films may sit uncomfortably with those of a more secular persuasion. But these films are invariably decently made and acted, and Breakthrough is no exception. This Is Us regular Chrissy Metz makes her presence felt as the boy's mum, and Topher Grace and Josh Lucas bring modest star power to a slick if sometimes slushy against-the-odds drama that's perfectly watchable, whether you subscribe to its claims or not. However, a long, drawn-out ending may try the patience of both camps.