La Forja

Over the years, the Kendrick brothers have brought Christian movies to the forefront. I wouldn't call myself religious, so I know these movies aren't really aimed toward me. Still, I gotta do my duty as a movie critic and see every movie I'm able to, to feed my never-ending love of movies, and for you guys of course. Their newest movie is actually a spin-off of their earlier film WAR ROOM, which I actually watched afterwards, for research purposes. THE FORGE is a movie about 19-year-old Isaiah (Aspen Kennedy), an irresponsible boy who plays basketball with his friends and plays video games "too much". Raised by a single mom (Priscilla Shirer) who has had it with his bull, gives him 1 month to find a job. This leads Isaiah to meet Joshua (Cameron Arnett), an older man who gives him a job and becomes his mentor, in the company and in life. You can definitely tell the director is a preacher. I know the powerful religious message is important, but it completely overshadows any resemblance of a movie. This felt exactly like WAR ROOM, with lower stakes. Sermons and melodramatic praying out loud for most of it, then they remembered it needs to be more than just a bible study, so they have a nearly impossible task that the company needs to accomplish, or they lose the business. The balance between message and movie was way off to one side. I will say though the acting is very good, leading to me getting a little emotional during some scenes (leave my heartstrings alone). While THE FORGE has many obvious tropes, I think Christians will enjoy this sermon, not as much for film critics. No wonder it doesn't have a critic's score on Rotten Tomatoes yet.

Forge had all the right elements. A compelling plot, believable actors, a relevant issue, a feel-good ending, a takeaway to emulate. The Kendrick brothers have improved their game since "facing the giants". This movie is as much about discipleship as it is answered prayer. In War Room, prayer takes center stage. In Forge, it is running in the background. Having discipled men for years, the movie felt too "perfect". Discipleship is a lot messier. Not all follow through, not all respond. Not everything gets buttoned up. I am happy for the Forge groups that will form as a result of this movie. I really enjoyed it. Just wish it was more real.

The Forge - A must see for younger generations that are struggling to find their way and a call to older generations to invest in the younger ones.

I recommend this movie to anyone, especially if you have liked other Kendrick brother movies. This movie brings a message of hope through discipling the youths and transgressors not with judgement but with love, respect, and selflessness.

It also teaches about power of prayer and having a great support system. It is ok to ask for help no matter who you are, you should not fight alone because there is always someone out there willing to pray with you.

The Kendricks have always made good movies in my opinion and this is another good movie you can watch with your family.

Thus movie hit home with me simply because I was actually 19 when I came to God and He changed my life! I like how they're not ashamed but straight-foward with it being a Christian movie. But on the flip side, they're not making theirselves to look better than non-believers. It has something for everyone! It's very encouraging and gives us a new perspective on how our lives could be if we change with God! What brings this movie alive is the fact that these type of changes happen to people everyday and it's reality! Like I said, it previously happened to me! Now I look back at my life and am truely thankful that through God I got another chance! This movie is a reminder of our testimonies of what God can do! It's an offer of hope to those that need it! Great movie! Thank you to everyone that played their roles and made this movie possible! We definitely need more movies like this! 🙏

This movie was an enjoyable watch - the cast was great top to bottom and the filming and sets looked crisp. The story, of a down and out young man looking to turn his life around with no real motivation to do so, is a good one.

Thanks to God, prayers of family and a great mentor figure things start to happen. The mentor is firstly a great actor, but the wisdom dispensed in this movie might be simple at first glance but is also invaluable. We'd all like a mentor like that man (hes a bit fantastical, but worth it) Its worth a watch, Christian or not just for that. Ofcourse it's made for Christians and im glad it doesnt shy away from it's faith themes but is watchable even if not christian. The scene with a bit of robot speak is a bit weird, but overall I enjoyed this film - a great one for young kids to direct them on the path.