The Encounter

“The Encounter”: A Divine Appointment on Screen

The Encounter is a powerful 2011 Christian drama that brings faith, redemption, and spiritual awakening to the forefront through a compelling and imaginative narrative. Directed by David A.R. White and starring Bruce Marchiano, Steve Borden (also known as wrestling legend Sting), and Jaci Velasquez, the film invites viewers into a mysterious roadside diner where eternity hangs in the balance.

Plot Overview

Five strangers—each carrying emotional wounds, doubts, and secrets—find themselves stranded at a remote diner due to a road closure. The group includes a wealthy atheist businessman, a troubled married couple, a young woman in a complicated relationship, and a runaway teen escaping abuse. As tensions rise, they are greeted by the diner’s enigmatic owner, who introduces himself simply as Jesus.

Played with warmth and quiet authority by Bruce Marchiano, this modern-day Jesus knows intimate details about each guest’s life. He gently confronts their pain, offers healing, and challenges them to make life-altering decisions. The film unfolds as a series of deeply personal conversations, each one peeling back layers of pride, fear, and disbelief.

Themes and Impact

The Encounter explores timeless spiritual questions: What does it mean to believe? Can broken lives be restored? Is there hope beyond suffering? Through its diner setting—a symbolic “last chance” stop—the film becomes a stage for divine intervention and soul-searching.

The performances are heartfelt, with Marchiano’s portrayal of Jesus offering both compassion and conviction. Steve Borden brings intensity to the role of Nick, the skeptical businessman, while Jaci Velasquez adds emotional depth as Melissa, a woman torn between faith and compromise.

Legacy and Reach

The film’s success led to sequels and a spin-off series, expanding its message to new audiences. It remains a favorite among Christian viewers for its clear gospel message and its ability to stir reflection and conversation.