In a society that often sees celebrities advocating for abortions, a new film called “Gimme Shelter” is challenging that norm and promoting a pro-life message while reminding viewers about the importance of faith and family.
Starring Vanessa Hudgens, “Gimme Shelter” tells the story of Agnes “Apple” Bailey, a 16-year-old who escapes poverty after a life in foster homes to find her estranged father in New Jersey. After reuniting with her wealthy father, Tom, and his new wife, Bailey finds herself pregnant, the father unknown. In order to remain in her dad’s care, the teen is told to abort the baby.
“It’s clear you are not ready to assume the responsibility of motherhood,” Bailey’s father tells her.
For Bailey, though, doing so isn’t easy, and she begins an internal struggle over whether she could care for a child on her own. What she ultimately decides is a choice that is rarely glorified, let alone portrayed, in Hollywood films.
Bailey doesn’t make the decision to choose life until she is in the doctor’s office, alone. A nurse hurries her to undress, but Bailey, clutching the first sonogram of her unborn child that she keeps in her shoe, runs instead, determined to give her child a life that was better than her own.
Her decision ultimately removes Bailey from the warmth and comfort of her father’s cushy home and puts her back on the streets.
Apple Bailey’s story is one of courage, determination and faith, and “Gimme Shelter’s” pro-life message is one that is missing from Hollywood.
But the film does more than just promote the right to life — it reminds viewers of the importance of faith, especially in a time of need.
Bailey finds solace in a shelter for pregnant teens and is brought there by a priest. Throughout the film, the young mother learns to lean on God and her faith, and she is reminded of her newfound beliefs every day as the movie begins to close.
Contrary to other shows and movies such as MTV’s “Teen Mom” that explore teenage pregnancy, “Gimme Shelter,” which is based on a true story, hardly glamorizes the issue. Instead, it chronicles the struggles associated with young motherhood, from late-night feedings to little money to constant crying and little help.
But Bailey never once questions her decision to keep her child.
The film features a star-studded cast including Hudgens — who traded her “High School Musical” persona for the gritty Bailey in an honest and raw portrayal — Rosario Dawson as Apple’s abusive mother, Brendan Fraser as her father and James Earl Jones as the priest who offers Apple support.
“Gimme Shelter” hits theaters Jan. 24. Run time: 1 hour 40 minutes.
Watch the trailer below.
