Ellington

Kirk Cameron had an idea that led to a cinematic quest to discover what has made America's legacy for freedom, prosperity and global leadership. I didn't recognize Cameron's name at first, but it evoked shadowy memories of a teen idol plastered on the glossy covers of Tiger Beat and Teen Beat magazines. A quick Google searched confirmed what I suspected: Cameron was a teen star who played a snarky adolescent making television-appropriate trouble in the ABC sitcom "Growing Pains." He not only met his future wife, Chelsea Noble, on set, but the seeds for his evangelistic calling took root during the show.

Cameron's film career of late has focused on Christian-themed movies, such as the "Left Behind" trilogy and "Fireproof." (The latter was an unexpected box-office success, made for a half-million dollars and grossing more than $33 million.) He also hosts a reality show/ministry vigil called "The Way of the Master."

Cameron's most recent project is "Monumental: In Search of America's Treasure," a documentary reflecting Cameron's personal views of America. It's unclear whether the film's success will be overshadowed by Cameron's comments a few weeks ago on "Piers Morgan Tonight," where he said, "Homosexuality is unnatural, detrimental and ultimately destructive to foundations of civilization." Perhaps these comments will boost interest in the film.

Cameron is savvy and well spoken; he knows and understands his fans and target audience. In press materials for "Monumental: In Search of America's Treasure," Cameron states: "Now this is my project, but it's about all of us, it's about our kids and securing a monumental future for them. "How do we teach them the truths that will set them free internally and externally for the world that they live in and secure their future?" I suppose that Cameron's interview on "Piers Morgan Tonight" provides one of the answers.

The 90-minute documentary, directed by Duane Barnhart, chronicles Cameron's personal journey to sites across Europe and the U.S. to find the secret ingredients that has made our nation great. Cameron narrates the journey, telling us that "America's the richest freest nation the world has seen," but—there's always a but—"BUT all signs tell (him) that something is sick in the soul of our country, and history tells (him) that we're headed for disaster if we don't change our course of action now." Cameron interviews one commentator who blames the current administration in Washington, D.C. You almost expect an endorsement at the end, advising that this message has been approved and endorsed by (insert the name of your favorite Republican candidate).

Cameron retraces the beginnings of America. He discovers a monument to the founding fathers that answers what core principles will keep America strong, free and well. (Spoiler Alert: If you read any further, you will know the secret, and for some that may diminish the cinematic experience.)

Those core principles (i.e., the secret ingredients for success) are freedom, justice, education, morality and religion that all boil down to evangelical Christianity.

To add to the film's message, Cameron plans to release supplementary study materials for families, schools and churches. Hindu and Muslim temples and Jewish synagogues were not mentioned, but I'm sure that the materials would be given to all groups if they ask.

"Monumental: In Search of America's Treasure" is being shown as part of Tinseltown Pearl's specialty film series and will be screened at 411 Riverwind Drive in Pearl, on Tuesday, March 27, at 6:30 p.m. The 130-minute program, hosted by Cameron, will include interviews with media, faith and political figures; live music; and a screening of the 90-minute film. Tickets are $11.50 for adults, $10.50 for seniors/students and $9.50 for children.