Courageous

When I first heard about Courageous, I was intrigued, not because I'm a Christian, but because as a member of a law enforcement family, I can relate to the plot. I wasn't disappointed. The film tells the story of five men and their families, and their decision to step up and face their responsibilities...no matter how hard they may be. Most of them were 'good enough' fathers before, but good enough isn't enough for a man of courage.

Courageous seemed less preachy to me than Fireproof was before it. Most of the acting was much better than I expected (Ken Bevel, in particular, really stepped it up this time). The film was very gritty, very true to life. There were times when I felt like I was watching my family in days past on the screen. Nothing about the reality of job or family was sugarcoated.

My main complaint would be with the plot structure; the story didn't have a clearly defined beginning, middle, and end. There were enough subplots, I thought, to fill two movies, though they all tied together nicely in the end.

Even my sister (who is not a Christian) agreed that she liked it. In the end, I walked away inspired and uplifted, not just by the film's message, but by it's presentation. Fireproof may have been a film I liked and walked away from, but Courageous is definitely one I'll be buying for my DVD collection. As of this film, I am a definite fan of the Kendrick brother's films, and I can't wait for more.

I have to admit that Courageous is similar to the other "Christian movies" (as they are commonly called). The acting isn't the best and it gets "preachy" in parts (which was fine for me, but will be uncomfortable or annoying for some non-believers), but the message is one every father (and mother, and child) should hear. There are some really funny, laugh till you cry, scenes and some very emotional, "get the Kleenex" scenes and even a few tense, action scenes. (some issues are to intense for young viewers, like death, drugs, gangs and fight scenes...hence the PG-13 rating) If you liked Fireproof, Facing the Giants and Flywheel, then you will love this. It's made by the same guys. Bottom line is that with all the junk out there now-a-days, this is a descent film, with a moral lesson, and unless you are anti family values and God, you will find a nugget of wisdom, a hope and a prayer for everyone, in My Humble Opinion! 7 stars from me Oct 2011

I happen to know that some of the previous reviews are written by those affiliated with the film. No deception there (rolling eyes). C'mon people, this is typical, predictable, cheesy crap. Yes, it's preaching to the choir who will, unfortunately, accept sub-par story lines, below average acting, and marginal cinematography. This is NOT reality as previously mentioned. Truly broken people say and do things that aren't as "polished" here for the Christian viewing audience, and hence, it layers guilt on those of us who may not have it as together....but still seek redemption and restoration. Save your money and catch it on Netflix in a few months.

I bought a ticket for this film knowing nothing about it other than it was new. When I arrived at the theater it was packed ... something I have not seen in a very long time. The audience really responded, and gave a standing ovation at the end. Like a breath of fresh air and a key time in our nation's history. Watching the credits closely, it was clear that this was a Christian production all the catering, for example, was done by churches). I have no particular religious agenda, but I found this film balanced and never felt as though I was being subjected to religious propaganda. It is an action-packed story, and is carried by the weight of the events that all ring true. All on and off screen work is first rate, and even the children are solid and credible. Technical details and production value is all highly professional.

Yes, it's a "Christian movie"...and yes, there's a "happy ending" and yes, there's a "message". So what?

In the 40 or so years I have been a regular movie goer, I've seen pretty much everything one can put into a film, from explosions to nudity to every possible combination of four letter words. And I am happy to say we didn't get any of it in this movie. So, if you yearn for a Hollywood blockbuster....pass on this one.

No, I'm no Pollyanna. I like some action and adventure. But I've gotten to where a movie with "less" is better to me in many ways. Yes, in full disclosure, I am proud to say I am a Christian. A Christian dad, too. I'm happy to report that this movie is what every father should see, be they "in the Faith" or not. It's nice to see a movie where there's a strong message of family unity. Even Disney movies have taken to trying to tell us that your average family is a broken one. That may be factual, but why can't we have some entertainment that focuses on people trying to be strong fathers? And that leads to strong mothers, and then stronger children. And in the end, a stronger community.

There's just enough humor to keep the movie moving along. It's not a short film by any means, so you do get your ticket price in viewing. There were a few scenes that might cause a jump or two, but they are part of setting the story. The movie is a nice surprise in a season of movies that will probably be forgotten a few weeks after viewing.

If you have a hard time hearing a lot about GOD and such, pass on this at the local Googleplex and wander into another film. I hope it makes you happy. But, I would gently suggest you try this movie out. Be you a man (or woman) of Faith or not. You just might be surprised. And, you just might wish to spend a little more time with your family.