GARAGE SALE MYSTERIES: MURDER TAKES THE STAGE
An intriguing murder-mystery that leaves viewers guessing.
Should You Watch It?
Yes. The movie offers an entertaining mystery for newcomers and longtime genre fans. The well-written story wastes little time, as the action starts right away and introduces plenty of potential suspects with plausible motives.
Viewers will stay invested as they try to solve the mystery before the final reveal. The cast also delivers solid performances, especially among the suspects, each of whom could plausibly have committed the murder.
Although the plot includes some minimal violence and immoral behavior, such as stealing and lying, its overall themes emphasize justice, honesty, and doing what is right. The story also highlights the value of strong friendships and family relationships. With plenty of mystery and only minor concerns, it offers a fun, family-friendly choice for viewers who enjoy a good whodunit.
The Story
NO SPOILERS — WE KEEP THE SURPRISESWhen amateur sleuth Jennifer Shannon’s book club gathers to host a murder-mystery night, the lines between fact and fiction blur after a member of the club turns up dead. A stolen first-edition book, an unearthed family squabble over money, and disagreements over a historic murder case complicate matters. The book club members have strong motives, making Jennifer’s job harder. Can she solve the case in time, or will the murderer aim at her next?
Is It Any Good?
Four stars for this very well-written murder mystery with no time wasted. The action begins almost immediately and does not let up until the very end. The plot remains compelling, especially with its ties to the real-life case of the Lizzie Borden axe murders, and each potential suspect has a plausible motive.
Viewers will wonder who the killer is right up until the end. The cast excels as well, especially the actors portraying the suspects. Each one delivers a convincingly suspicious performance.
With a great cast, an interesting story, and a well-written mystery that keeps viewers engaged, this one stands as a perfect murder mystery, whether you are new to the genre or a longtime fan. Just when you think you have the killer figured out, the story may have one more trick up its sleeve.
The Worldview
Justice drives this movie from start to finish, giving it a moral worldview. Characters focus on doing the right thing, and Jennifer, along with her friends and family, works hard to bring a killer to justice. They also try to figure out who stole a pricey book. Strong family relationships and friendships run through the story, as characters support each other and spend time together.
This murder mystery includes some scenes of minimal violence. The characters find a dead body with a pool of blood underneath it. The movie also includes staged violence, as the characters take part in a dramatic reenactment of the Lizzie Borden mystery. For example, a character swings a fake bloody axe at someone.
The story also includes other examples of immoral behavior. Characters lie and steal, and one character unknowingly sells counterfeit antiques, though the story reveals this only later. In the end, honesty and family loyalty win out over greed and deception.
The Content Guide
The specifics — spoilers included by nature — so you can judge for your own family.
Dominant Worldview and Other Worldview Content/Elements
A moral worldview, with characters focused on doing the right thing and bringing a killer to justice. Pro-family elements stress strong family dynamics and friendships
Foul Language
No foul langauge;
Violence
A character kills another and the dead body with blood is shown, character is hit and knocked unconscious, several scenes include fake violent acts (ex. Swinging an axe) as part of a murder-mystery night reenactment
Sex
A married couple kisses in a few scenes
Nudity
No nudity
Alcohol Use
No alcohol use
Smoking and/or Drug Use and Abuse
No smoking or drug abuse; and,
Miscellaneous Immorality
Characters lie and steal, one character is selling counterfeit antique items, but it is later discovered she didn’t know they were fake items.
Talk About It
Questions for the drive home, the dinner table, or the youth group.
Jennifer and her friends work hard to bring a killer to justice and do the right thing. How can the biblical definition of doing the right thing sometimes differ from the world’s definition of “the right thing?” Proverbs 21:15
A character wants to uncover another’s deceit, but doesn’t go about it in exactly the right way, accusing them first instead of asking them to explain. Why is it important to seek reconciliation, instead of satisfying your own personal vindication? Romans 12:17
The movie’s murderer ultimately admits that the killing was accidental, but thinks this means he shouldn’t be arrested for his crime. Does a person’s ignorance or intent change the reality of their sin? James 4:17
The Final Word
GARAGE SALE MYSTERIES: MURDER TAKES THE STAGE delivers a sharply plotted murder mystery that holds together thanks to a strong cast and a clear sense of right and wrong. Minimal violence and a few shady characters won't scare off teens, adults, or genre fans. They'll only fuel the appetite for a good whodunit. Case closed, verdict in: this one's worth the watch."
