In an age of ever-increasing stress and world turmoil, Beyond the Rain is a refreshing throwback to a kinder bygone era of Capra-esque movie romance … nostalgic escapism … or as studio execs often refer to as counter programming.

Retired film professor Tom Summers has become cynical toward the profession he so passionately cared about in his youth. Although a glimmer of hope still remains as Tom confesses during his final lecture: “Sentimental fool that I am, I still believe in the magic of the movies.” Fanning that flame is his favorite pupil, African American Jazmine Jones, a fireball graduate who gives her adored mentor a genuine section of the original yellow brick road, made out of wood, as a retirement gift in the emotional tear-filled opening scene.

But not in professor Tom Summers’ wildest imaginings would he believe the legendary yellow brick road is indeed a magically mysterious time portal to his past … a past wrought with guilty memories of his life’s greatest regret. Tom’s first visit back in time lands him in an era 50 years ago, where he himself was a college student at Georgia State University … and where he is miraculously reunited with the lost love of his life -- the woman he feels he let slip away. Just minutes after meeting her, Tom is abruptly whisked back to present day, followed by the bad news that he must undergo heart surgery as soon as possible or risk a potentially fatal heart attack.

Softening the blow is film student/apprentice Jazmine, who seeks Tom’s guidance in her dream to become a filmmaker. Initially, Tom advises her against it. However Jazmine’s ferocious spirit – and perhaps that she reminds him of his former love – is the spark that ignites a strong friendship that grows deeper as the film progresses.

Throughout the story, Tom learns how to somewhat control his yellow brick road excursions with the aid of a simple kitchen timer, which he presets to determine how much time he spends in the past. Secrets are revealed and villains exposed that mirror the universal metaphors of The Wizard of Oz and other iconic films … all building to an unexpected heartfelt climax exploding with the full spectrum of raw human emotion … and spectacular movie magic.

Click your heels three times and follow your heart to mystic places Beyond the Rain.

© Copyright 2007 Beyond the Rain