The Choice Parent Guide

February movie releases are certain to include at least one romance and the adapted works of novelist Nicholas Sparks often contributes a tear or two to the genre. This year The Choice is the latest movie based on one of Sparks’ books. It offers us most of the plot elements we have come to expect in his writing: An unlikely couple, and characters whose lives have been brushed by death.

In this case the pair are Travis and Gabby (Benjamin Walker and Teresa Palmer), who coincidentally meet under less than favorable circumstances. They are neighbours and initially there are a lot of misunderstandings that involve loud music interrupting Gabby’s medical studies and her skepticism when Travis explains the woman he is hanging around with is really his sister. Travis also has a hard time convincing the girl next door that his dog is not the culprit that left her pooch pregnant.

Of course, we know from the opening moments that, despite each of these people having existing romantic relationships, somehow, someway they will get together. It takes a lot of time and manoeuvring but finally the sparks fly—resulting in a lengthy sensual scene that starts in the kitchen and ends in the bedroom.

Now it appears this relationship should progress, yet there are still many obstacles to overcome and grief to endure. By the end, it all feels like too much pain and not enough gain. Fortunately, there is lots of beautiful scenery in this film that may distract you from recognizing the content concerns it contains for teen viewing. In addition to two premarital sexual interludes we also hear a wide range of mild and moderate profanities, along with some sexual discussion and a sexual finger gesture. Disappointing as well is the impression that the characters in this film can’t socialize without alcoholic drinks in their hands.

Overall The Choice comes off as a clumsy Valentine’s Day card with a verse that’s pages long. However there are a few reasons diehard romantics may still want to include it on their date movie list. Families are portrayed as an essential element contributing to a happy life. And some of the characters demonstrate how their faith has helped them through difficult circumstances—although a prime opportunity to have our protagonist recognize this is missed.

Despite all its sentimentality, the plot tries to make the point that even little choices add up to big choices. And the sum of all choices ends up determining our life path. That may be a message worth contemplating.

About author

Rod Gustafson

Rod Gustafson has worked in various media industries since 1977. He founded Parent Previews in 1993, and today continues to write and broadcast the reviews in newspapers, on radio and (of course) on the Internet. His efforts also include writing and researching media in all its forms and observing how it effects society and culture. He and his wife Donna have four children.