Evan Almighty (2007) is a lighthearted fantasy comedy film directed by Tom Shadyac, serving as a spiritual sequel to Bruce Almighty (2003). This time, instead of Jim Carrey’s Bruce, the focus shifts to Steve Carell’s character Evan Baxter, the pompous news anchor from the first film who now finds himself in a biblical predicament of epic proportions.
Detailed Summary
The Modern-Day Noah
The movie begins with Evan Baxter (Steve Carell), who has just been elected to Congress after the events of Bruce Almighty. He moves with his wife Joan (Lauren Graham) and their three sons to a new home in suburban Washington D.C. Evan is determined to “change the world,” a campaign promise that soon takes on a literal meaning.
Evan’s first days in Congress go well as he settles into his new office, aided by his eager assistants—Rita (Wanda Sykes), Marty (John Michael Higgins), and Eugene (Jonah Hill). He’s under the mentorship of Congressman Long (John Goodman), a senior politician with a suspicious agenda involving a controversial land development bill.
When God Shows Up
Evan’s seemingly normal life turns upside down when he is visited by God himself, played once again by Morgan Freeman. God calmly informs Evan that He has chosen him for a very special task: to build an ark. Naturally, Evan thinks he’s hallucinating, but the signs soon pile up—pairs of animals start following him everywhere, mysterious deliveries of wood arrive at his door, and he begins growing a long, uncontrollable beard overnight.
At first, Evan tries to hide what’s happening from his family and coworkers, but it becomes impossible when he starts dressing in ancient robes and wielding a staff. His family worries he’s losing his mind, and the public ridicules him, calling him “Noah 2.0.”
Building the Ark
As Evan accepts his divine mission, he quits Congress and begins constructing a massive ark in his backyard. The sight of a suburban ark becomes a media spectacle. Joan, overwhelmed by embarrassment and confusion, takes the kids and leaves for a while. God, disguised as a friendly waiter, later appears to her in a restaurant and gently explains that Evan is indeed doing God’s work. He reminds her that “when you pray for patience, God gives you opportunities to be patient.”
Joan realizes she must support her husband’s calling and returns home with their children to help him finish the ark. Soon, the entire community mocks them as “the crazy ark family,” and even Congressman Long uses Evan’s odd behavior to push through his corrupt bill.
The Storm and the Flood
On the day of Long’s big press event, Evan’s ark is complete—but no rain has fallen. Long publicly mocks Evan, calling him delusional. But suddenly, the skies darken, and the flood arrives—not as global destruction, but as a massive dam break caused by Long’s unsafe construction project. The water rushes toward the city, threatening to destroy everything.
Evan, his family, and the animals climb aboard the ark just in time. The structure floats perfectly, saving everyone. The ark crashes into the steps of the Capitol, exposing Long’s corruption and making Evan a hero. In the end, the flood is revealed not as divine punishment but as a test of faith and integrity—and a reminder about caring for the environment and one another.
Movie Ending
After the floodwaters recede, Evan’s reputation is restored. Congressman Long is exposed and arrested for his illegal dealings, while Evan and his family become symbols of faith and moral courage. The ark rests in a park as a monument, a reminder of what they’ve all learned.
Evan returns to the forest where he first met God. They have a final conversation about what it truly means to “change the world.” God draws the letters “A-R-K” in the sand, explaining that it stands for Acts of Random Kindness—a simple way anyone can make a difference. Evan smiles, understanding that his divine task wasn’t just about the ark itself but about learning humility, love, and purpose.
The movie ends with the Baxter family joyfully hiking through nature as God watches with a smile, proud of his “modern-day Noah.”
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
Yes. During the credits, there’s a light-hearted and fun dance sequence featuring the cast—Steve Carell, Morgan Freeman, and others—dancing to “Reet Petite.” It’s purely comedic and not story-related, serving as a cheerful epilogue for audiences.
Type of Movie
Evan Almighty is a family comedy blended with fantasy and religious allegory. It combines slapstick humor with moral and spiritual themes, making it suitable for both kids and adults.
Cast
- Steve Carell as Evan Baxter
- Morgan Freeman as God
- Lauren Graham as Joan Baxter
- John Goodman as Congressman Long
- Wanda Sykes as Rita
- John Michael Higgins as Marty
- Jonah Hill as Eugene
Film Music and Composer
The score was composed by John Debney, who created a light, uplifting soundtrack to match the film’s comedic and inspirational tone. It features both orchestral and gospel influences, supporting the divine yet humorous atmosphere.
Filming Locations
Filming took place mainly in Charlottesville, Virginia, and around Crozet. The massive ark set was built on location—an impressive full-scale structure that became one of the largest practical movie sets ever constructed. These locations helped ground the biblical story in a modern, suburban American context, highlighting the contrast between divine myth and everyday life.
Awards and Nominations
While Evan Almighty did not win major awards, it received a Golden Trailer Award nomination for Best Family TV Spot. However, it was also nominated for a few negative honors, including Razzie Awards for Worst Sequel and Worst Actor (Steve Carell)—though fans often argue the criticism was harsher than deserved.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The ark set was 450 feet long and took months to build—based on the biblical dimensions from the Book of Genesis.
- Real animals were used alongside CGI, with over 100 trained species brought to the set.
- Steve Carell spent hours in makeup each day to perfect the growing beard transitions.
- Morgan Freeman improvised many of his lines as God, bringing his calm authority and humor naturally to the role.
- The production faced heavy rains during shooting—ironically fitting the theme of the film.
Inspirations and References
The movie takes direct inspiration from the biblical story of Noah’s Ark in the Book of Genesis but reimagines it in a modern, political setting. It also builds on themes from Bruce Almighty, focusing on how divine intervention can test personal integrity and family values.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
Some deleted scenes expand on Evan’s transformation and his relationship with his staff. A few comedic moments showing the chaos of the animals in suburban life were trimmed for pacing. No known alternate ending was filmed; the final version reflects Tom Shadyac’s intended moral closure.
Book Adaptations and Differences
Evan Almighty is not based on a book, but a novelization was released alongside the film. The book delves deeper into Evan’s thoughts and adds small details about his growing faith and family bonds that the movie only hints at.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Evan’s first meeting with God at his office desk, where God keeps reappearing in every disguise.
- The comedic sequence where Evan’s beard grows back seconds after shaving.
- Joan’s conversation with God in the restaurant, one of the most heartfelt moments in the movie.
- The flood scene as the ark rides through the Capitol—spectacular and symbolic.
Iconic Quotes
- God: “How do we change the world? One act of random kindness at a time.”
- Evan: “I asked for you to help me change the world, and this is what I get?”
- Joan: “Maybe the point isn’t that God gives us what we want, but gives us the chance to do what’s right.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The number “614” appears throughout the movie—a reference to Genesis 6:14, where God instructs Noah to build the ark.
- The animals arrive in pairs exactly as in the Bible’s account.
- In the final scene, the letters “A-R-K” are subtly engraved on Evan’s staff.
Trivia
- This was the most expensive comedy film ever made at the time, with a budget of around $175 million.
- Steve Carell initially hesitated to take the role but agreed after reading the script’s environmental message.
- The film’s ark set became a tourist attraction after filming wrapped.
- Director Tom Shadyac used real water from Virginia rivers during the flood scenes.
Why Watch?
Evan Almighty offers a family-friendly story that mixes humor, faith, and environmental awareness. It’s less about religion and more about morality, humility, and the impact of doing good in small ways. The film’s lighthearted spirit, stunning visuals, and Steve Carell’s charm make it a pleasant watch for audiences of all ages.
Director’s Other Movies
- Bruce Almighty (2003)
- Patch Adams (1998)
- Liar Liar (1997)
- Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Bruce Almighty (2003)
- Click (2006)
- The Truman Show (1998)
- Yes Man (2008)
- Bedtime Stories (2008)
