Sibling filmmakers Jon and Andrew Erwin occasionally strain credibility and test patience with October Baby, their debut feature opening Friday at theaters and drive-ins everywhere. But they're blessed with a lead player whose affecting performance goes a long way toward papering over any narrative shortcomings. Newcomer Rachel Hendrix grabs attention and sustains sympathy as a lovely yet troubled 19-year-old student determined to unlock the secrets of her past after learning the circumstances of her birth.
While obviously aimed at devotees of faith-based cinema, October Baby isn't preachy: The underlying anti-abortion message is notably understated, and religious plot elements are implicit rather than explicit until the final reel. You can read my full Variety review of the film here.
