🎙️🎬Full Movie Recap
“Evan Almighty” (2007) is a comedic continuation of a divine narrative that began with “Bruce Almighty,” but shifts focus to Evan Baxter, a former news anchor turned newly elected congressman. The film opens with Evan, played by Steve Carell, relocating with his family to a lavish home in a new development near Washington, D.C. His campaign slogan, “Change the World,” sets the tone for his political aspirations. However, the real change begins when Evan is directly contacted by God, portrayed by Morgan Freeman, who instructs him to build an ark in preparation for a great flood. Initially dismissive of the absurdity of the request, Evan soon finds that divine signs and inexplicable occurrences make it impossible to ignore his celestial assignment.
As Evan reluctantly embraces his role as a modern-day Noah, the film humorously explores the challenges he faces in balancing his new divine mission with his responsibilities as a congressman and family man. The transformation is both physical and spiritual; Evan grows a long beard, dons ancient robes, and is followed by pairs of animals, much to the bewilderment of his colleagues and family. His wife, Joan, played by Lauren Graham, struggles to support what she perceives as Evan’s midlife crisis, which strains their relationship. The comedic tension heightens as Evan’s peculiar behavior threatens his political career, especially under the scrutiny of his ambitious boss, Congressman Long, portrayed by John Goodman.
Throughout the film, the narrative cleverly intertwines Evan’s personal journey with broader themes of environmentalism and political ethics. As Evan constructs the ark, it becomes a symbol of his commitment to a higher purpose, challenging the corrupt practices of his peers. The film critiques the indifference of politicians to environmental concerns through the subplot involving a bill that threatens a local wildlife preserve. This plotline not only serves as a catalyst for Evan’s transformation but also reflects the film’s underlying message about stewardship and responsibility. God’s mysterious ways are depicted through small miracles and humorous mishaps that gradually convince Evan’s family and community of the impending flood, despite their initial skepticism.
The climax of “Evan Almighty” builds with the impending arrival of the flood, which coincides with a significant vote on the controversial land development bill. In a twist of fate, the flood is not a global catastrophe but rather a localized event caused by a broken dam, which washes away the corruption symbolized by Congressman Long’s plans. The ark becomes a vessel of salvation for the community and a metaphor for the cleansing power of truth and integrity. As the waters recede, the community rallies around Evan, who emerges as a hero despite the ridicule he faced. The film resolves with a sense of unity and purpose, as Evan reunites with his family and refocuses on his initial campaign promise to change the world through acts of kindness and service.
In conclusion, “Evan Almighty” blends humor and heart to deliver a modern parable about faith, family, and the courage to follow one’s convictions. The film’s comedic elements are underscored by a talented cast, with Steve Carell’s portrayal of Evan providing a balance of slapstick humor and sincere vulnerability. The visual effects, particularly the scenes involving the gathering of animals and the construction of the ark, contribute to the film’s playful yet meaningful tone. Ultimately, “Evan Almighty” is a lighthearted exploration of how divine inspiration can manifest in unexpected ways, encouraging audiences to consider the impact of their choices on the world around them. The film’s blend of comedy, moral lessons, and engaging characters makes it an entertaining and thought-provoking addition to the genre of family-friendly films with a message.
🎥🔥Best Dialogues and Quotes
“God: How do we change the world? One act of random kindness at a time.”
This quote emphasizes the power of small, everyday actions in creating significant change, suggesting that each act of kindness contributes to a better world.
“Evan Baxter: I know, whatever you do, you do because you care.”
This line reflects the theme of understanding and trust, recognizing that actions driven by care and concern have a deeper purpose.
“God: If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient?”
This dialogue explores the idea that growth often comes through challenges, encouraging us to see difficult situations as opportunities for personal development.
“Evan Baxter: I can’t even get my own family to follow me!”
This quote captures the struggle of leadership and the importance of earning trust and respect, even from those closest to us.
“God: Let me ask you something. If someone prays for courage, does God give them courage or opportunities to be courageous?”
Here, the film highlights the concept that true qualities such as courage are developed through facing challenges rather than being simply granted.
“Evan Baxter: You want me to build a boat?”
This line underscores the theme of faith and obedience in the face of seemingly illogical or daunting tasks, trusting a higher purpose.
“God: You know, a lot of people miss the point of Noah’s story. They think it’s about God’s wrath and anger. They love it when God gets angry.”
This quote invites reflection on the deeper meanings behind religious stories, urging a focus on themes of renewal and mercy rather than punishment.
“Evan Baxter: Why me?”
This existential question reflects a common human experience of self-doubt and the search for purpose in our life’s challenges.
“God: How do we change the world? One single act of random kindness at a time.”
Reiterating the power of individual actions, this emphasizes the cumulative impact of kindness in transforming the world.
“Joan Baxter: I think you should do the things that make you happy.”
This advice highlights the importance of personal fulfillment and pursuing one’s passions as a path to genuine happiness.
“Evan Baxter: You want to change the world, son. So do I.”
This statement connects personal ambition with a broader mission, suggesting that individual desires can align with collective goals for positive change.
“God: You have to understand that this building a boat thing is really not about you.”
This points to the idea that our actions often have wider implications beyond our immediate understanding, serving a greater purpose.
“Evan Baxter: You know, I want to make a difference. I want to do something big.”
This captures the human aspiration for making an impact and the desire to leave a lasting legacy through our contributions.
“God: When you get to where you’re going, you’ll know.”
This suggests that clarity and understanding often come with time and experience, encouraging patience on our journeys.
“Evan Baxter: What if God chose me for a mission? What am I supposed to do?”
This question reflects the uncertainty and responsibility that come with being called to fulfill a higher purpose.
“God: You’re changing the world, one act of random kindness at a time.”
This reinforces the central theme that small, intentional acts can collectively lead to large-scale transformation.
“Evan Baxter: Building an ark is really hard.”
This line symbolizes the challenges involved in undertaking significant endeavors, requiring resilience and dedication.
“God: You want to know how to change the world, son? One act of random kindness at a time.”
This encapsulates the film’s core message that individual efforts in kindness are the key to global change.
“Evan Baxter: It’s my mission, and it could change everything.”
This quote expresses the belief that embracing one’s purpose has the potential to alter not just personal circumstances, but the world at large.
“God: It’s about believing in something you can’t see.”
This statement highlights the essence of faith, trusting in unseen possibilities and the power of belief.
🎬🔍 Behind-the-Scenes Facts
Steve Carell’s Real-Life Fear of Birds
During the filming of “Evan Almighty,” Steve Carell reportedly had to confront his real-life fear of birds. The scenes involving flocks of birds were especially challenging for him, but he managed to overcome his apprehension to deliver a convincing performance.
The Ark’s Massive Construction
The production team built a full-scale replica of Noah’s Ark for the movie, which was an impressive 450 feet long, 80 feet high, and 45 feet wide. This massive structure was constructed in a field in Crozet, Virginia, and became a local tourist attraction during the shoot.
Environmental Message and Green Filmmaking
“Evan Almighty” was one of the first major films to emphasize an environmental message and implement green filmmaking practices. The production used solar power, hybrid vehicles, and recycled materials, and even planted trees to offset their carbon footprint.
Largest Animal Casting Call
The movie holds the record for one of the largest animal casting calls ever, with over 177 different species represented. The animal actors included everything from elephants to birds, and many of them were paired with animatronics and CGI to bring the scenes to life.
Steve Carell’s Hair Transformation
For his role as Evan Baxter, Steve Carell had to undergo a significant transformation, including growing a real beard. However, due to continuity and time constraints, he eventually relied on a combination of real and fake hair to maintain the character’s iconic look throughout the film.
Film’s Budget and Box Office Performance
“Evan Almighty” held the record for the most expensive comedy film ever made at the time, with a budget of around $175 million. Despite its high production cost, the movie faced challenges at the box office, earning approximately $173 million worldwide.
Virginia’s Role in the Film
While the story is set in New York, much of “Evan Almighty” was filmed in Virginia. The production chose locations in and around the state for their natural beauty and versatility, including the town of Crozet and the Virginia countryside.
🎭🍿 Hidden Easter Eggs & Trivia
Evan Almighty, a 2007 comedy directed by Tom Shadyac, is often remembered for its astronomical budget, making it one of the most expensive comedies ever produced. The film is a sequel to the 2003 hit Bruce Almighty, but instead of following Jim Carrey’s character, it turns the spotlight on Steve Carell’s Evan Baxter. With a budget of over $175 million, much of it went into creating the massive set pieces, including the construction of a full-size ark. This incredible feat of design and engineering took months to build and was constructed to exact specifications, mimicking biblical descriptions. This attention to detail is a testament to the filmmakers’ determination to create an immersive experience, blending comedy with an epic sense of scale.
Behind the scenes, Evan Almighty was a logistical challenge, particularly due to its extensive use of animals. The film featured nearly 180 different species, and while some were computer-generated, many were real. Animal trainers and handlers were brought on set to manage the logistics of working with so many creatures. This required careful coordination and adherence to strict safety protocols to ensure the welfare of the animals and the safety of the cast and crew. The presence of so many animals brought its own set of challenges and surprises, with actors often having to adapt their performances to the unpredictable nature of their animal co-stars.
In terms of trivia, one of the most interesting aspects of Evan Almighty is its use of Easter eggs that reference the original film, Bruce Almighty. Fans of the franchise will notice subtle nods throughout the movie, like the reappearance of Morgan Freeman as God, who once again delivers his lines with a mix of gravitas and humor. There are also several visual motifs, such as the recurring “42” seen in the film, which is a playful nod to the number’s significance in popular culture as the “answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe, and everything,” from Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.
The psychology behind Evan Almighty is fascinating, particularly in its exploration of themes such as faith, responsibility, and personal transformation. The character of Evan Baxter undergoes a significant transformation from an ambitious politician to a humble servant of a higher calling. This mirrors a classic hero’s journey, where the protagonist is called to leave behind their former life and take on a new role that challenges their beliefs and priorities. The film uses comedy to explore these themes, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own lives and consider the importance of faith, family, and community.
While Evan Almighty may not have achieved the critical acclaim or box office success of its predecessor, it left a notable impact in terms of its environmental message. The film was marketed as a “green” production, with efforts made to reduce its carbon footprint. The filmmakers partnered with several environmental organizations to promote sustainability, both on and off the set. This included recycling materials, using hybrid vehicles, and donating leftover wood from the ark to Habitat for Humanity. These efforts were part of a broader trend in Hollywood at the time, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental issues.
In terms of legacy, Evan Almighty has carved out a unique place in the realm of comedy sequels. Although it didn’t achieve the same level of financial success as Bruce Almighty, it remains a significant example of how ambitious a comedy film can be in terms of production values and thematic depth. The film’s blend of humor, special effects, and heartfelt messaging offers a template for future filmmakers looking to create comedies that resonate with audiences on multiple levels. Additionally, the film’s focus on family-friendly content and positive themes has allowed it to maintain a presence in family movie nights and discussions about films with moral lessons. Its legacy is one of both ambition and the challenges of balancing spectacle with storytelling.
🍿⭐ Reception & Reviews
## Evan Almighty (2007): Reception and Reviews
**Synopsis:** A follow-up to “Bruce Almighty,” Evan Almighty stars Steve Carell as Evan Baxter, now a newly elected congressman who is tasked by God (Morgan Freeman reprising his role) to build an ark in preparation for an impending flood.
**Critical Reception:**
* **Overall Negative:** “Evan Almighty” was largely panned by critics, holding a **Rotten Tomatoes score of 23%** based on 184 reviews. The consensus reads: “While possessing noble intentions and showcasing some impressive special effects, *Evan Almighty* forsakes the sharp satire of its predecessor for a relentlessly saccharine and heavy-handed message.”
* **Common Criticisms:**
* **Preachy and Heavy-Handed Message:** Critics found the film’s environmental message to be unsubtle and overwhelming, sacrificing humor and entertainment for didacticism.
* **Lack of Originality:** Many felt it was a recycled plot with a predictable and uninspired narrative.
* **Ineffective Comedy:** The humor was generally deemed to be broad, slapstick-heavy, and lacking the wit of the original film.
* **Bloated Budget:** The film’s exceptionally high budget ($175 million, making it the most expensive comedy film at the time) was often cited as disproportionate to its quality and entertainment value.
**Audience Response:**
* **Mixed to Negative:** While not as universally disliked as it was by critics, audience reception was generally mixed. On **CinemaScore**, the film received a **”B+” grade**, indicating a lukewarm reception from moviegoers.
* **Positive Aspects Acknowledged by Some:** Some audience members appreciated the film’s family-friendly nature, the visual effects, and Carell’s performance. However, these positives were often overshadowed by the aforementioned criticisms.
* **Box Office Disappointment:** Despite its massive budget and star power, “Evan Almighty” was considered a box office disappointment. It grossed $173.4 million domestically against its $175 million budget (excluding marketing and distribution costs), meaning it relied heavily on international box office to break even.
**Notable Reviews:**
* **Roger Ebert (Chicago Sun-Times):** Gave the film 2 out of 4 stars, stating that while the film had “good intentions,” it was ultimately “a big, silly, inoffensive, expensive movie.” He criticized the lack of character development and the predictable plot.
* **A.O. Scott (The New York Times):** Described the film as “an exercise in humorless piety” and “an assault on the senses.” He criticized its unsubtle message and reliance on special effects over substance.
* **Peter Travers (Rolling Stone):** Gave the film 1.5 out of 4 stars, calling it “a disaster of biblical proportions” and criticizing its lack of laughs and its heavy-handed messaging.
**Awards:**
* **Nomination:** BMI Film & TV Awards – BMI Film Music Award
* **Nomination:** Golden Raspberry Awards – Worst Sequel (Lost to *Daddy Day Camp*)
**In summary:** “Evan Almighty” was a critical and commercial disappointment. While boasting impressive visual effects and a noble message, it was widely criticized for its unsubtle messaging, lack of originality, and ineffective humor. Audience reception was mixed, and the film’s high budget and underwhelming box office performance contributed to its negative overall perception.