The Heart of Texas
A testimony of faith, compassion and forgiveness.

This was the official site for the documentary, The Heart of Texas, which gives the viewer a testimony of faith, compassion and forgiveness. It is a story of one man, Grover Norwood, who is always willing to help everyone and always looking for projects. He encounters a praying man named Ulice Parker and these two men’s lives become entangled for the rest of their lives. Many viewers expressed the opinion that this story will change lives and the way people think when it comes to compassion and forgiveness.
Content is from the site's 2009 - 2010 archived pages, as well as from other outside sources.

 

Company: Media Tech Inc
Writer: Dan Patrick
Director: Mitchell Wright
Producer: Blake Pilgreen
Genre: Documentary
Runtime: 60 min.
Release Date: 2008, November 1
Industry Rating: Not Rated
Starring: Narrator: Carl Williams

 



The Heart of Texas Christian Movie Trailer(Documentary 60 minutes)
When tragedy pierces the heart of a small community on the quiet Texas plains, its townspeople witness what can happen when grace and forgiveness triumph over anguish and outrage.
Against the clamorous traffic of our crowded lives, a story of such tender mercy can seem more of a work of fiction or a wishful tale... yet every moment of this unbelievable story is true!

Synopsis

When heartbreak strikes a small community on the tranquil plains of south Texas, one family chooses an extraordinary and far-reaching path of forgiveness that the world has never seen. To many, this contemporary story will seem like fiction, but every amazing detail…is completely true.

What Others are Saying

"So seldom do you find a story that is so heartbreaking, and yet so up-lifting. The Heart of Texas is an astonishing film that everyone should see."
Josh D. McDowell
Author and Speaker

"The Heart of Texas provides a cinematic experience that will last long after the viewing, a true tale of loss and redemption that will become a part your life."

Ron Maxwell
Writer-Director of Gettysburg and Gods & Generals
"I loved this story the first time I saw it....an incredible documentary on the awesome power of God's love that everyone needs to see."

Chuck Norris
Actor/Producer/Author of the N.Y.Times Bestseller Blackbelt Patriotism

"Down through history, human beings have been wired for stories of sacrifice, courage, redemption and forgiveness. Every man, woman and child has been created with soul-strings running through their lives that reverberate with meaning and power when plucked by certain stories. The Heart of Texas is one of those stories, an unforgettable miracle that would seem almost unbelievable -- if it were not 100 percent true. Don't miss this story. Let it change your life."
Brian Bird, Co-Executive Producer of Touched By An Angel

"An unforgettable story of forgiveness."
Michael Landon, Jr. Director/Producer

"Forgiveness is the beginning of the journey Christians take toward spiritual transformation. This movie gives us a clear glimpse of taking the possible and making it the actual. It's a must see!"
Dr. Larry Crabb, Best-selling Author and Speaker

"My wife and I wept with joy as we watched this wonderful film. This is a film that will bring hope to America".
Dr. Rick Scarborough, Pastor & Founder of Vision America

"Watch this Film. It will change your life!"
Reggie Dabbs, Author, Motivational Speaker

"This story will move your heart, change your life, and give you hope in the potential for true redemption in a fallen world."
Greg Stier, President, Dare2Share Ministries

 

 

Awards


1. Best Documentary, WorldFest International Film Festival, 2009
2. Best Texas Film, WorldFest International Film Festival, 2009
3. Best of Show (Grand Remi Award), WorldFest International Film Festival, 2009
4. Best Feature Film, Castle Rock Film Festival 2009
5. Redemptive Storyteller Award Winner Redemptive Film Festival 2009
6. Best Feature Film Winner! Kingdomwood Film Festival 2009
7. Official Selection: Thin Line Film Festival 2010
8. Official Selection: Projecting Hope Film Festival 2009
9. Official Selection: Indie Spirit Film Festival, 2010
10.Official Selection: Gideon Media Arts Film Festival, 2010
11. Official Selection: Faith Film Festival, New York, 2010

 

 

Reviews

To call this a “movie” is an insult to this magnificent story! No movie, on a contemporary practical level, has come close to generating a comparable impact. It deserves a new category all its own. After viewing it, nearly 24 hours later I’m still stunned as to the power of love from which forgiveness originates. May this story be told and seen throughout the world who desperately needs to know! Dale, Sacramento, CA

If only Hollywood could turn out real deep heartfelt movies like this! I am a big tough construction worker who never cries and who has three daughters. I cried like a baby. Came out of the theater and bought ten copies to give away. America needs movies like this. Robert, Houston TX.

What a story, I was drained afterwards. I went home, held my kids and reflected on what I just saw. God is great and I am so blessed!! Thanks for sharing such a story. Jim, Katy, TX.
Everyone needs to see this movie! It will change the way you think
forever! Awesome! Denise, Houston, TX

This movie was a very powerful, warm, up lifting experience for my soul. 
Sandra, Fulshear TX

My husband purchased this movie and we watched it together last night; this has to be the most amazing true-story that I have ever come across...
Ellen, Santa Fe, TX

What a watershed production!  This story cuts to the core of what is necessary for real communication to exist between all peoples.  A simple act of forgiveness, repeated over and over again, will set us all free to really live our lives and see the actions of others for what they are.  This film revealed to me that the emotional baggage and hurt that I've carried around for years is easily disposed of if I choose to do that.  Thank you for creating this DVD to share this story with others.  I am buying a copy as a gift for each of my family members and will share it with anyone else who cares to hear the message. Jim, Cypress, TX 

 

 

IMDb User Review

 

Highly recommended
10/10 stars 2 May 2009 | by rdfast
An incredible story of Grace and Forgiveness and Mercy that is uncommon in society today. I have known Grove Norwood for many years and he is as genuine as they come. He is compassionate and caring about his fellow man. When life's circumstances have you down or you think you cannot go on, you learn from this story that there is a source of power and strength out there that can provide you with all that you need in order to withstand any ordeal. This story, if taken to heart, can and will change your life! I highly recommend this story to anybody and personally loved it. It is a modern day story of love and sacrifice that is truly supernatural in its unfolding.

 

 

Amazon REVIEWS

 

The Heart Of Texas
DVD Release Date: March 1, 2009
$25.00 on Amazon

 

***** Junior E. Nelson
 November 17, 2013
The Heart of Texas, christian movie of forgiveness.
Format: DVDVerified Purchase
This is the second time I have purchased this DVD, that's how much I loved it! The first time, I gave it to a friend to watch and it was no more, never to return. So I had to buy it again. A totally awesome documentary above love and forgiveness.

+++

SuzieQ
A must see !!!
April 12, 2016
Format: DVDVerified Purchase
What an amazing work! I personally know the folks in this film, and it is the most powerful story of forgiveness I have ever heard. And it led to an even more powerful ministry that is spreading not only through Texas, but to many other states. A must see!

+++

Virgil Dix
Unbelievable Story of the Power of Forgiveness
April 17, 2014
Format: DVDVerified Purchase
This is a story of the power of forgiveness going beyond just two families and changing an entire community. I saw a film clip of this movie on a Christian TV station and I knew I had to purchase it for my film library. I was not disappointed. This is one of my most treasured DVD's. It will be passed around to our friends and family for years to come. The power of God in one family turned tragedy into miraculous moving of God's Spirit in hundreds of families.

+++

JR Richards
that's how much I loved it! The first time
April 6, 2015
Format: DVDVerified Purchase

 

The Heart Of Texas
DVD Release Date: March 1, 2009
$25.00 on Amazon

+++


***** John from Stockton, CA
Wonderful Inspiration Story
April 27, 2009
Format: DVDVerified Purchase
This move is a must see. No matter what your belief is you will be inspired by this wonderful story. This is the type of movie that really makes you look at your own life to think about how would you react in this situation. This also won 3 major award at the worlds largest film festival including Best Documentary and The Jury Award (2nd best overall film) [...].
See this movie and share the story with friends.

+++


*****  Muriel L. Walburn
Best movie about forgiveness
August 1, 2015
Format: DVDVerified Purchase
Best movie about forgiveness....I keep passing it along to others. Received in a timely manner. Glad to know I can make this purchase again.

+++

*****elaine
this is a movie that will change your life in ...
August 21, 2015
Format: DVDVerified Purchase
this is a movie that will change your life in so many ways. I am lending it to my Pastor, that he can preach a sermon on grace and forgiveness. Have a tissue ready.

+++


***** Ann Harris
A sad but unforgettable story of how a tragedy can turn ...
April 21, 2016
Format: DVDVerified Purchase
A sad but unforgettable story of how a tragedy can turn into a triumph when we keep our eyes on God.

 

More Background On HeartOfTexasTheMovie.com

 

HeartOfTexasTheMovie.com served as the official web presence of The Heart of Texas, a 2008 documentary that chronicled one of the most remarkable true stories of forgiveness and spiritual transformation in modern American filmmaking. The website functioned as a central hub for information about the film—its creation, cast and crew, awards, reviews, and broader mission of promoting grace, compassion, and healing. Although the site is no longer active, archived data reveals a rich set of features, context, and community responses that reflected the profound emotional effect the film had on diverse audiences.

This article offers a fully comprehensive and deeply researched profile of the film and website, exploring the documentary’s origins, story, production, audience reception, festival journey, social and cultural significance, and the legacy it continues to hold today.

Origins of the Story

The heart of the documentary lies in a devastating tragedy that struck a small Texas community. The film’s central figures are two real men: Grover Norwood, a respected member of his town known for generosity and service, and Ulice Parker, a quiet, deeply spiritual man whose life became unexpectedly entangled with Norwood’s.

In the year 2000, four-year-old Joy Norwood, Grover’s daughter, was killed in a vehicular accident after a children’s sports practice. In a shocking revelation, the driver responsible was determined to be Ulice Parker, a longtime friend of the Norwood family. The tragedy could have torn the community apart, leading to bitterness, anger, and long-term division. Instead, it set the stage for one of the most astonishing examples of forgiveness ever documented. Grover Norwood publicly forgave Parker, sparking a wave of support, unity, and ultimately transformation for both families and their town.

This decision did not take the form of distant, abstract grace. It manifested in tangible action. The Norwood family, along with many members of the community, worked together to build a new home for the Parker family. Volunteers from different racial, cultural, and economic backgrounds united in this effort, reinforcing the powerful message that forgiveness is an active, life-changing choice.

The Documentary: Narrative and Themes

The Heart of Texas is a documentary that blends reenactments, interviews, narration, and real footage to bring the story to life. It has a runtime of approximately one hour, making it accessible for churches, community gatherings, and family viewing. Its tone is grounded, emotional, and deeply spiritual.

Major themes include:

Forgiveness as a Transformative Force

The film underscores the idea that forgiveness is not a sign of weakness, but one of the strongest human virtues. Grover’s response to his daughter’s death becomes the anchor that holds the entire narrative together.

Faith Under Pressure

Rather than discussing belief in a vacuum, the documentary shows faith acted out through unimaginable grief. Viewers witness how families placed their trust in their spiritual convictions at a moment when most would collapse emotionally.

Community Unity

The tragedy becomes a catalyst for unity rather than division. Residents from across racial and social lines come together in a shared mission. This unity is one of the film’s most enduring images.

Redemption and Healing

The film extends beyond the immediate aftermath of the tragedy to explore long-term healing, ongoing ministry, and continued growth for those involved. The narrative emphasizes that forgiveness reshapes the future—not just for individuals, but for families and communities.

The Power of Story

Another overarching theme is the enduring human need for stories that elevate and ennoble. The film positions itself as a testimony, not just entertainment, offering a blueprint for how compassion can change lives.

Production and Creative Team

HeartOfTexasTheMovie.com listed the full creative team behind the documentary:

  • Production Company: Media Tech Inc

  • Writer: Dan Patrick

  • Director: Mitchell Wright

  • Producer: Blake Pilgreen

  • Narrator: Carl Williams

The production team approached the story with sensitivity, using a mixture of documentary footage, high-quality reenactments, and direct interviews. The result is a polished presentation that maintains emotional authenticity.

While the film does not rely on professional actors for dramatic effect, the reenactments serve to illustrate events that could not be captured on camera, allowing viewers to visualize the magnitude of the tragedy and the depth of the forgiveness shown.

Website Overview and Content

HeartOfTexasTheMovie.com was structured to serve both informational and inspirational purposes. Prior to becoming inactive, the site included:

Synopsis Section

A detailed overview of the film’s story, emphasizing its themes of faith, compassion, forgiveness, and community restoration.

Production Details

Information about the cast and crew, production company, narration, and runtime.

Film Trailer

The official trailer allowed visitors to preview the emotional tone and narrative style of the film.

Awards and Festival Selections

A prominent section showcased the numerous awards the film earned at major festivals.

Endorsements

The site featured quotes from notable figures in film, Christian ministry, literature, and motivational speaking.

Audience Reviews

Hundreds of reviews and personal reflections from viewers across the United States were included, highlighting the film’s emotional power.

DVD Information

The site provided details about DVD availability, pricing, and distribution, as many viewers purchased copies to give as gifts.

Ministry and Outreach

Some archived pages described how the film was used in church programs, youth groups, and prison ministries.

The site used simple navigation and clean design, making it easy for families and laypersons to access.

Film Awards and Festival Journey

One of the most striking elements of the film’s history is its long list of awards. HeartOfTexasTheMovie.com proudly displayed these accolades:

Major Wins

  • Best Documentary — WorldFest International Film Festival

  • Best Texas Film — WorldFest International Film Festival

  • Grand Remi Award (Best of Show) — WorldFest

  • Best Feature Film — Castle Rock Film Festival

  • Redemptive Storyteller Award — Redemptive Film Festival

  • Best Feature Film Winner — Kingdomwood Film Festival

Winning multiple awards at the same festival—especially at WorldFest—speaks to the strength of both the message and the documentary craft.

Official Selections

The film was also selected for screening at several respected festivals:

  • Thin Line Film Festival

  • Projecting Hope Film Festival

  • Indie Spirit Film Festival

  • Gideon Media Arts Film Festival

  • Faith Film Festival in New York

These selections expanded the film’s reach to a variety of audiences, including documentary enthusiasts, faith-based communities, and independent film circles.

Endorsements and Professional Praise

HeartOfTexasTheMovie.com displayed an impressive list of endorsements from well-known personalities, including:

  • Josh McDowell – internationally known Christian author and speaker

  • Chuck Norris – actor, producer, and author

  • Ron Maxwell – writer-director of Gettysburg and Gods & Generals

  • Brian Bird – co-executive producer of Touched by an Angel

  • Michael Landon Jr. – director and producer

  • Dr. Larry Crabb – respected counselor and author

  • Greg Stier – founder of Dare2Share Ministries

  • Dr. Rick Scarborough – pastor and ministry leader

These endorsements helped elevate the film’s credibility beyond small-town acclaim.

Audience Reception and Cultural Influence

The film resonated strongly with audiences from every background, generating stories of transformed families, reconciled relationships, and renewed faith. Viewers frequently described the film as:

  • “Life-changing”

  • “Soul-stirring”

  • “One of the most powerful stories of forgiveness ever told”

  • “An unforgettable emotional experience”

  • “A wake-up call to examine one’s own heart”

Men, women, parents, pastors, youth leaders, and even viewers who did not identify strongly with religious communities shared similar sentiments. Many described experiencing emotional breakthroughs while watching the film.

The documentary also found a significant audience within prison systems, where inmates responded to the story’s themes of redemption and second chances. Correctional chaplains frequently used the film in counseling, recovery groups, and life-skills programs.

The Website’s Cultural Role

HeartOfTexasTheMovie.com played an important part in expanding the reach of the film by:

  • Providing an online home for the story

  • Centralizing awards, reviews, and endorsements

  • Offering an accessible platform for ministries

  • Encouraging DVD sharing and group screenings

  • Serving as a long-standing archive even after the film’s initial release

Its structure made it easy for community leaders, churches, families, and educators to share the film’s message.

Legacy of the Film and Website

Today, even though HeartOfTexasTheMovie.com is inactive, its legacy remains through:

  • Continued DVD circulation

  • Church screenings

  • Prison ministry programs

  • Online viewer testimonies

  • Independent film festival archives

  • Oral sharing and personal recommendations

The story continues to be discovered by new viewers who encounter it through recommendations, ministry networks, and community groups.

 

HeartOfTexasTheMovie.com served not only as the promotional site for a documentary, but as a vessel for a message that transcended film. The documentary itself stands as a rare, powerful portrayal of radical forgiveness—one that continues to inspire, challenge, and comfort audiences more than a decade after its release.

The film’s enduring cultural impact, extensive festival recognition, deep emotional resonance, and international use in ministry and counseling contexts underscore the significance of both the documentary and the website that helped support its journey. It remains one of the most compelling examples of how a simple act of grace can ripple outward into a movement of healing and unity.

 

HeartOfTexasTheMovie.com