“Pass The Light” encourages viewers to light a candle instead of cursing the darkness. Steve Bellafiore (excellently played by Cameron Palatas) is a devoted Christian who tires of hearing the ravings of a candidate for Congress, Franklin Baumann (Jon Gries). He advocates sending homosexuals away and he bashes anyone who disagrees with his views. Although Steve agrees there are moral issues hurting the country, he also believes showing compassion and caring for others is the key to improving things. He also reminds his quarreling parents to remember what they first loved about each other.
Steve knows he’s too young to run for Congress; at age 18 he is several years shy of the requirement of age 25. Yet he decides to run anyway, figuring he can draw attention to his message of “passing the light.” His real goal is to land a debate with Baumann. He gains friends and followers and they begin to improve the school and do things such as passing notes to students that describe that student’s positive points and what is appreciated about each of them. It works! Soon the excitement catches on and Baumann agrees that if Steve gets 3,000 signatures, he will debate him. Does he do it? Does a debate happen? Who wins the election?
There are a few surprises along the way, but one thing is no surprise. This inspiring movie about loving people where they are carries a “love” rather than “hate” attitude that lifts the film to great heights. It also makes crystal clear that young people can make a difference. We are pleased to award our “Faith-Friendly” Seal for ages twelve plus to “Pass The Light.” The film focuses on compassion, overcoming difficulties in relationships, and extending a helping hand rather than showing a closed fist.