JOYFUL NOISE

Joyful Noise offers cheerful music, funny moments, and strong positive representations of Christian faith, including prayers to Jesus. Its gospel choir, family struggles, and heartwarming relationships give the film an uplifting spirit.

But the movie also sends mixed messages. Traditional Christian convictions are sometimes presented negatively, while rebellion and more progressive choices are treated favorably. Multiple plotlines can obscure the overall story, and the film includes foul language and other questionable elements.

This is a worthwhile musical for teenagers and adults who can exercise discernment, but the PG-13 content and mixed worldview make home viewing the wiser choice. Watch it at home if you choose it, so your family can discuss what the film celebrates and what it gets wrong.

Vi Rose Hill has worked hard to become director of the Divinity Church Choir, but G.G. Sparrow also wanted the position. Their rivalry continues as they disagree about the choir’s musical direction.

G.G. wants her secular grandson, Randy, to help bring contemporary songs to the group. Randy develops an interest in Vi’s daughter, Olivia, creating more conflict at home and in the choir. Meanwhile, the choir prepares for a major competition while its pastor considers shutting it down.

Three stars means Joyful Noise is entertaining and enjoyable, though uneven. The movie features energetic, talented, fun musical scenes, including a wonderful performance of “Jesus Fix Me.” Its cheerful tone and heartwarming elements give viewers plenty to enjoy.

The film’s multiple plotlines are also its main weakness. The story moves among the son with Asperger’s Syndrome, the rebellious teenager, the troublemaker love interest, the choir’s uncertain future, and Vi’s family burdens. These threads sometimes make the overall plotline difficult to follow.

The movie contains strong, positive representations of Christian faith. Characters pray to Jesus, speak about giving glory to God, and express faith through gospel music. The choir’s central purpose is to make a joyful noise and serve God through singing.

Still, the film presents a mixed picture of Christianity. Vi is fighting for faith, but her strict and traditional sensibility is portrayed negatively. The choir moves toward modern songs modeled on contemporary pop music, while other characters lean toward rebellion. Vi’s son questions God because of his disease, and her daughter wants to move beyond her sheltered identity as a “church girl.” A choir member also stresses the importance of a sexual relationship.

The film’s strongest Christian ideas are sometimes marred by romantic ideas about following your heart and by rebellion against authority and tradition. Its positive faith elements are real, but families should talk through the places where emotional desire and personal freedom replace obedience and wisdom.

The title’s call to joyful worship connects with Scripture: “Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands” (Psalm 100:1, KJV).

Joyful Noise is an energetic, heartwarming musical with genuine Christian encouragement, but its language, rebellion, sexual themes, and mixed messages call for discernment. It has merit, yet home viewing gives your family room to pause and talk. Our answer is WAIT FOR HOME. For more suitable choices, see.