Robber of the Cruel Streets: The Prayerful Life of George Muller

It was the best of times (for George Muller) and the worst of times (for orphans) in early 19th-century England, where the lucky ones were the street kids who survived by begging or stealing, while the less fortunate were confined to workhouses (as immortalized by Charles Dickens). Presented by Russell Boulter, this docudrama follows the course of George Muller's (1805-1898) progress from playboy to Christian convert, who “robbed the cruel streets of thousands of victims, the gaols of thousands of felons, and the workhouses of thousands of helpless waifs” by founding a series of homes where children were cared for and educated. This was a lifelong work and Muller (played by Adam Stone as a young man, and later by Andy Harrison) became an international speaker of note, traveling to 42 countries, including the United States, although he never asked for financial support, relying solely on prayer (and the kindness of unsolicited contributions) to meet the children's needs. His work continues to this day through the Scriptural Knowledge Institution which distributes scriptures, supports mission work, and runs schools for children of the poor (like Muller himself, the SKI's work continues to be based on prayer, faith, and trust in God). Featuring beautiful on-location cinematography and lovely background music, this is an absorbing and inspirational biographical profile. DVD extras include a bonus half-hour program on the life and legacy of Muller. Highly recommended. Aud: P. (J. Reed)