What was your senior year like? “Senior Year: Love Never Fails” is a heartwarming film that beautifully captures the essence of love, faith, and self-discovery during the transitional period of senior year. 

Directed and written by Jude Okwudiafor Johnson, the movie takes us on an emotional rollercoaster ride through the lives of a group of high school seniors as they navigate the challenges of love, loss, and the bittersweet moments of their final year together.

An Overview of the Film

Produced by Anchor Media Studios, Senior Year: Love Never Fails is the sequel to the award-winning film Freshman Year, released on Netflix last 2020. The plot centers on CJ and Marcella, a couple who cannot shield their relationship from different problems, including friends, family, and faith. The two attempt to resolve their issue as a tragic discovery turns their lives upside down.

The movie is set in the San Francisco Bay Area. It stars Diallo Thompson, Heidi Montag, Vernon Davis, a former NFL player and Super Bowl champion (“Chariot”), Asia’h Epperson, Benjamin Onyango, Natalia Dominguez, and Denise Boutte. The artistic Miles Minnick, a well-known Christian hip-hop artist, also portrays in the movie.

Eros, Philia, and Agape

The trailer mentions three unique forms of love described in Greek, all observed throughout the film.

Eros refers to passionate, romantic love associated with desire and attraction. Intense emotions and a longing for physical and emotional union often characterize it. While Eros love can be expressed in a romantic or sexual context, it can also extend to a deep emotional connection between individuals. 

In the Bible, the Song of Solomon provides a beautiful depiction of Eros love. For instance, Song of Solomon 1:2 says, “Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth— for your love is more delightful than wine.” This verse encapsulates the yearning and intensity of Eros love within the context of a romantic relationship.

Philia, as a form of love, refers to deep friendship and camaraderie. It encompasses feelings of loyalty, trust, and companionship among individuals. Philia love emphasizes shared experiences, mutual support, and a sense of belonging. It is often rooted in common interests, values, and care for one another. 

In the Bible, the story of David and Jonathan exemplifies the essence of philia love. In 1 Samuel 18:1, it says, “After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself.” This verse showcases the deep bond and affection between friends, reflecting the qualities of loyalty and unity found in philia love.

Lastly, agape refers to selfless, unconditional love that transcends personal interests and extends to all people. It is often regarded as the highest form of love, characterized by sacrificial actions and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. 

Agape love is not dependent on circumstances, emotions, or the worthiness of the recipient; rather, it is a conscious choice to love and serve others without expecting anything in return. 

In the Bible, one of the most well-known verses describing agape love is found in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This verse demonstrates that God’s love for humanity is unconditional, sacrificial, and all-encompassing, serving as the ultimate example of agape love.

On Fear of Failure

Like the protagonist, we often feel like losing our minds. One minute, everything feels like it has fallen into place. But then it all crumbles in a flash. What matters is that we put our faith in God because his dedication to us never fails.

When we have an understanding of God’s unconditional love, we can find security, peace, and confidence in His presence. Knowing that we are loved by an all-powerful and compassionate God can give us the strength to overcome our fears, including the fear of failure. We can trust in His guidance, knowing that even in our failures, He has a plan for us, and can use those experiences for our ultimate good.

Prayer is a powerful tool for connecting with God and seeking His guidance and support. When faced with the fear of failure, we can pray for courage, wisdom, and discernment. We can ask God to help us release our fears and trust in His perfect plan for our lives. Prayer can provide comfort, clarity, and a sense of peace as we surrender our worries and fears to God, knowing that He is with us every step of the way.

Verdict

I can’t help but feel a strong connection to the experiences of CJ and Marcella. Standout performances come from the lead actors, who skillfully convey the complexities of their roles, showcasing a range of emotions that leave a lasting impact.

If there’s one aspect that slightly detracts from the film, it’s the predictability of some plot points. While the story unfolds in a familiar manner, it’s the life lessons rooted in Christianity and the depth of character development that make it a worthwhile watch. The film manages to find its own voice within the genre, delivering heartfelt moments and poignant messages that resonate with viewers.

If you’re inspired to watch Senior Year: Love Never Fails, you can access the trailer on YouTube.