DIVINE DECISION

Cinemavixion Review

Marc Leif's "Divine Decision" (also known as "The Tribunal") offers a poignant exploration of faith, friendship, and the complexities of love, set against the solemn backdrop of a Catholic Marriage Tribunal. The narrative centers on a profound dilemma faced by Tony and Joe, two best friends bound by a shared affection for Emily. Joe's quest for an annulment of his prior marriage, a prerequisite for his union with Emily, places Tony in a precarious position. As Emily's devout Catholicism makes the annulment essential, Tony, who still harbors feelings for his ex-girlfriend Emily, holds the key to its realization through his testimony. However, the film masterfully elevates this interpersonal conflict into a spiritual struggle for the souls of all three protagonists. Tony's journey towards redemption, motivated by his desire to be worthy of Emily, and Joe's earnest, albeit less spiritually deep, love for her, create a compelling dynamic. Emily, too, must navigate her own heart, discerning the true nature of her love for either man. "Divine Decision" transcends a simple love triangle, posing profound questions about sacrifice, divine will, and the ultimate resting place of the soul. The film, released in 2016 and starring Ryan Wesley Gilreath, Chris Petty, and Laura E. Mock, has garnered attention for its thoughtful engagement with themes of faith and human fallibility, earning one win and three nominations.