Donnie McClurkin Story: From Darkness..To Light (2004)

Better Than AME' Biography

By shofran  Dec 20, 2004 | 2 out of 2 found this Donnie McClurkin Story: From Darkness..To Light (2004) review helpful

Pros: Informative and intelligent

Cons: Was a bit long...

From Darkness to Light is the definitive Biography of Gospel singer Donnie MCClurkin and worth the time to see. FDTL takes its viewers on the bitter-sweet journey of McClurkin's humble beginnings in the small, sleeper town of Amityville, NY to h...is current status as a world renown Gospel singer and television personality.One would be remiss to watch this documentary and neglect to note the ever felt strong phoenix-like resilancy that McClurkin has used to overcome his lifes biggest defeats.A victim of same sex sexual rape and molestation by two close family members; McClurkin doesn't take the safe road by down playing the effect that the abuses had on his life. Plagued for more than 20 years with questions about his own sexuality, McClurkin shares the tools that he found to help him slay his demons.I found his transparency to be refreshing,as well as inspiring, coming from a man who could have easily swept his abuse and personal failures under-the-rug of his ever illuminating spotlight- McClurkin instead used these experiences as a springboard to launch his ministry to hurting people.The DVD includes many candid interviews from McClurkins friends, family members and business colleagues which were at times moving and thought-provoking but undeniably humourous and laudatory.As with any "True" biography, the most important part of FDTL is the almost flawless symmetry of McClurkins predestined path (which took him from a small Assembly of God Church to Broadway, Oprah and even the White House)and all of the key players that were positioned (at just the right time) to bring him to where he stands today.The only down point of this DVD is the missed opportunity of the filmmaker to show the kinder attributes of the Man-behind-the performer. I was left with questions like, does he give to any charities?, What (outside of the gospel of Christ and his church in NJ) is he passionate about? What were his biggest regrets and what are his goals for the future? Perhaps in a couple of years there will be another DVD and many more opportunities to peel back a few more layers of this impressive performer and the answers to these questions will be revealed. So if you are reading this review and wondering if you should fork over the $20- I have only one reply- ABSOLUTELY! This DVD is worth the money and perhaps for victims of sexual abuse FDTL could transcend into some much needed encouragement as opposed to the usual mindless entertainment. Read more Less