Last night Kari and I sat down and watched Courageous. Here is the very, very short version of my review: If you are a dad…watch it. Period.
Is it the best movie you’ll ever see? No.
Is the acting (or writing or directing) going to win any awards? No.
Are there a few “Christian clichés” in there? Yes.
That said…there are several reasons why I think every dad would do well to spend two hours watching this movie – preferably with their wives (and kids if they are over 11 or 12 years old).
First – It is a good story. I love a good story. And I hate it when a movie focuses so heavily on the main character (or main “family”) that everyone else is turned into a bit part that points back to the main character. In Courageous, each character has his own life, issues, strengths, and challenges. I found myself genuinely interested in each person instead of just waiting to get back to the main guy and his family.
Second – It takes you on an emotional journey. Ok…here it is: Yes – I cried. I won’t tell you why (in case you haven’t seen it), but I can tell you that authentic tears (from sadness and heartfelt relational connections) were shed down my cheek. I also laughed. I also related to the conversations these guys had.
Third (and most important) – It will challenge and encourage you to be the dad God calls you to be. Let me put it this way: After watching Courageous, I poked my head into my kids’ rooms and felt God whisper to me, Cherish them. Lead them. Love them. Serve them. Hold onto them tightly…and loosely. Yes…they are Mine. But for now…they are yours. Take care of them.
I love my kids. I love being their dad. And – as Adam said in the movie (in response to one of his buddies saying that Adam was a good enough dad)
But that’s the problem. I don’t just want to be a “good enough” dad.
Amen.
Have you seen Courageous? What did you think? Are there any movies that have impacted the way you think about life, parenting, marriage, or faith?
I recently watched the movie with my wife. I agree that the acting is not the best, yet I have recommended every man and father watch this movie. If more of us understood the importance of being a father, how different would this world be?
I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. At the core of my faith is the same as other Christian organizations; I believe that Jesus Christ is my Savior and Redeemer, and that only through him can we hope to obtain Eternal Life with our Heavenly Father. I agree with everything contained in this movie, and happily endorse it to everyone.
Thanks Cliff. Glad you liked the movie. Hopefully lots of men will watch it…and become courageous!