"TO SAVE A LIFE," is one of the extremely rare, "faith-based" films that actually transcends its genre and target audience. Randy Wayne stars as Jake, a popular high-school basketball player with a beautiful girlfriend.  When Roger, another student, lost, and no longer sharing the important friendship he once had with Jake, kills himself in front of Jake, a lot of "soul-searching" begins.  Well, at least there's searching taking place within Jake. Most of the school moves on without a pause. Jake and a youth minister, Chris, both feel guilty for having not done more to be there for Roger, begin to help one another and find deeper meaning to their lives, although not without more trial and tribulation.

What could've easily become another crappy Kirk Cameron-type faith-based film, ends up being a "really good" film that's easy to recommend. Sure, there are some moments that feel too manipulative, but the majority of the film shows remarkable restraint, allowing the cast and direction pull the viewer in without histrionics or an over-the-top script.

SONY has provided the correct 2.35:1 aspect ratio for this AVC MPEG-4 1080p blu-ray.  Colors are extremely rich. It's surprising to find films made on modest budgets with the quality and technical qualities as showcased on this blu-ray! Detail is outstanding! Virtually every scene has stunning depth. Blacks are vibrant, so none of the detail is lost in shadow during the darker scenes. Great job, SONY!

The DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix offered here is as surprising as the film. While "TO SAVE A LIFE" is dialogue-driven, surrounds are much more active than we'd expected it would be. Ambient effects are consistently effective, but music and discrete effects generate an immersive environment, exactly where it's needed, without ever feeling forced. A GREAT MIX!

SONY has included some decent extras. A commentary with the film's director, writer and producers is a little too self-descriptive, but worthwhile for aspiring filmmakers, less concerned with extra insight. Deleted scenes, a gag reel, music videos and trailers for other SONY releases, are all offered in 1080p!