“Thorns” is a gripping and powerful short film about triumphing over the painful moments of life. It is a compelling movie, and “Thorns” shows that a film can be short yet effective. It features a woman named Catherine (Melanie Nelson) who wanders into a flower shop. She meets a friendly French shop owner named Grace (Heidi Harrison). Grace offers to help Catherine, but Catherine says she is only “looking.” Yet when other patrons come in to the store and buy thorns, it stirs Catherine’s curiosity. Grace explains that all of her patrons have gone through times in life when the thorns hurt. As one male patron says, “I think I’ll call this thorn my prostate!” Yet the thorns represent much more than pain. Grace attempts to encourage Catherine, but she soon leaves. Yet she returns shortly afterward, and Grace is able to tell her the story of the thorns. It is a story Catherine needs to hear, having suffered a tremendous loss. Grace encourages her that her life will soon be better.

Catherine’s life does indeed improve and when she returns to the shop approximately a year later, she gets a surprise that makes for an interesting conclusion. This faith-friendly film makes it clear that God is with us during our most painful times in life. And the song played during the credits about the crown of thorns is stirring and impactful. We are happy to award “Thorns” our “Faith-Friendly” Seal for all ages. As this film makes clear, roses are always part of the thorns and their loveliness will eventually bloom. This inspirational short movie has earned five Doves, our best rating.