New Life

Although it aspires to be a kind of latter-day "Love Story," the rote, overly earnest drama "New Life" exists largely on the surface.

The film's press release mentions both The Notebook and The Fault in Our Stars in its first sentence. Add the word 'Christian' and you have both an elevator pitch and a summary.

A familiar story about a family torn apart by illness. The voiceover is unnecessary, though Erin Bethea is impressive as Ava.

Heartwarming message, but romantic drama falls flat.