<P> The trio of strangers gradually reveal their identities . The purpose of their invitation is to first help him to better understand his life as seen from a much broader context or higher perspective . This realization helps free him from an inclination to pass judgment upon himself as well as upon everyone else who crosses his path . It is from that new starting point that he may then continue his long, slow journey into healing for himself and his family and forgiveness for himself as well as for those who have grievously harmed him and his loved ones . </P> <Ul> <Li> Sam Worthington as Mackenzie "Mack" Phillips <Ul> <Li> Carson Reaume as Young Mack </Li> </Ul> </Li> <Li> Octavia Spencer as Papa </Li> <Li> Graham Greene as Male Papa </Li> <Li> Radha Mitchell as Nan Phillips </Li> <Li> Aviv Alush as Jesus </Li> <Li> Sumire Matsubara as Sarayu </Li> <Li> Tim McGraw as Willie </Li> <Li> Alice Braga as Sophia </Li> <Li> Megan Charpentier as Kate Phillips </Li> <Li> Gage Munroe as Josh Phillips </Li> <Li> Amélie Eve as Missy Phillips </Li> <Li> Ryan Robbins as Emil Ducette </Li> </Ul> <Li> Sam Worthington as Mackenzie "Mack" Phillips <Ul> <Li> Carson Reaume as Young Mack </Li> </Ul> </Li> <Ul> <Li> Carson Reaume as Young Mack </Li> </Ul>

Who plays mackenzie in the movie the shack