This 2010 film about a young boy who loses his father in the war in Afghanistan only to see him return home as a ghost to help him win a singing competition, won’t win any Oscars for its acting or rapping, but is of note for several important reasons. First and foremost for being a Hunter Films production, headed up by Birmingham’s very own Alan and Hugh Hunter, who have played a pivotal role in the development of the film industry here as filmmakers, producers and supporters, and also co-founded the multi-use production facility, Workplay. But beyond that, Lifted has the distinction of being something of a commercial for Birmingham circa-2010, and not just as a filmmaking destination. Featuring appearances by local musicians like Ruben Studdard (who has a lead role as Pastor Johnson), Shariff Simmons, and Todd Simpson— all of whom were making waves on the Birmingham music scene at the time— the movie really plays up the sounds of the city while also providing cameos for people like popular optometrist-turned-crawfish boil fest aficionado, Dr. Jack Schaeffer. And if you look closely enough, you’ll also spy local product placement like the forever refreshing Buffalo Rock and Grapico soft drinks, as well as concert posters for the likes of indie rock bands Don Caballero and Maps and Atlases from the sorely missed, and legendary, Bottletree music venue over in Avondale. Also prominently featuring places like UAB’s Alys Stephens Center and Comer Elementary School in Crestwood, the Magic City is literally stamped on almost every aspect of the film, from the use of local businesses and churches, to scene extras and the general backdrop of the film. That being said, music lovers will probably wince at the norm-shattering take on Bob Dylan’s “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” that ends the movie, putting a giant question mark on some of the musical choices made for this family-friendly Magic City flick. That being said, it’s a fun (and funny) watch for anyone interested in post-American Idol Alabama in all of its ragged glory.
FUN FACT: Country star Trace Adkins has a cameo in the film as a surprise guest judge at the singing competition at the end of the movie, playing fake country music star Jimmy Knox, who knocks Henry’s grandfather out cold in the men’s bathroom at the Alys Stephens Center after lobbing a racist slur at his grandson’s choice of music.
Trailer Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li6M4G4vfMM