Film Review

‘A Great Awakening’: Ben Franklin’s Most Important Contribution

Apparently Ben Franklin changed his beliefs due to the influence of protestant preacher George Whitefield, leading him to recommend a union of church and state.
‘A Great Awakening’: Ben Franklin’s Most Important Contribution
Benjamin Franklin (John Paul Sneed), in "A Great Awakening." Roadside Attractions
Mark Jackson
Mark Jackson
Film Critic
|Updated:
0:00

PG-13 | 2h 9m | Faith-Based, Historical | 2026

While glossing over some controversial aspects of Calvinist Methodist preacher George Whitefield’s life—such as his notorious advocacy for slavery—faith-based and hagiographic historical drama “A Great Awakening” tells Whitefield’s story, largely by way of his friendship with Benjamin Franklin.

Mark Jackson
Mark Jackson
Film Critic
Mark Jackson is the senior film critic for The Epoch Times and a Rotten Tomatoes-approved critic. Mark earned a bachelor's degree in philosophy from Williams College, followed by classical theater conservatory training, and has 20 years' experience as a New York professional actor. He narrated The Epoch Times audiobook "How the Specter of Communism Is Ruling Our World," available on iTunes, Audible, and YouTube. Mark is featured in the book "How to Be a Film Critic in Five Easy Lessons" by Christopher K. Brooks. In addition to films, he enjoys Harley-Davidsons, rock-climbing, qigong, martial arts, and human rights activism.
twitter