“Higher Ground” opens today in New York and Los Angeles with a favorable review in the New York Times, which has selected it as an “NYT Critics’ Pick.” Here are the first and last paragraphs of the review:
There is something remarkable — you might even say miraculous — about the way “Higher Ground” makes its gentle, thoughtful way across the burned-over terrain of the American culture wars. The film, directed with disarming grace and sharp intelligence by Vera Farmiga (who also stars in it), is about the conflict between skepticism and religious faith, but it does not treat that battle as an either/or, winner-take-all proposition. …
“Higher Ground” ends on a daring note of irresolution. Earlier, Pastor Bill has made reference to Revelation 3:16 — “because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I shall spew you from my mouth” — a verse that seems unequivocal in its condemnation of uncertainty. … But there is nothing tepid about Corinne’s confusion, and there is also evident passion in Ms. Farmiga’s embrace of it.
The NPR review is also worth reading, and includes this link to a crucial scene. At the movie’s site, there is this quotation from Rainer Maria Rilke: "Be patient toward all that is unresolved in your heart. And try to love the questions themselves."
Below is an interview with Vera Farmiga and some brief clips from the film; but they do not do justice to the film’s subtlety and spirit. To appreciate that, you need to see the entire film, and then discuss the last scene.