The Next Voice You Hear Reviews

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Smith (James Whitmore and Nancy Davis [Reagan]) are happily married and eagerly awaiting the birth of their second child when they, and the rest of the world, are shaken by the voice of God emanating from the radio one night. Skepticism and fear grip the globe, but, returning to the airwaves for six nights, the voice persuades listeners not to be afraid of His pronouncements. The lives of the Smiths, and those of their neighbors, are forever changed as they realize the direction they must now take. Despite a seemingly ludicrous concept, this is a sincere drama handled with care under William Wellman's direction. Rather than projecting a heavy-handed message, the film concentrates on the effect these broadcasts have on the characters' everyday lives. Whitmore and Davis are especially believable as the changed couple, conveying an honest warmth that adds to the spirit of the picture. Producer Dore Schary intended to create a film about God that emphasized His effects on the common man and not a biblical spectacle like those Hollywood was so adept at producing. Gossipmonger Hedda Hopper called THE NEXT VOICE YOU HEAR a film "for every member of the family. In fact, for America."