April 20, 2024
Cheryl and I had the privilege the other night of attending the Red Carpet premier of the Kendrick Brothers’ newest film, "Overcomer." I am not exactly sure how we ended up on this list of invitations other than when War Room was debuting we received an email inviting pastors and I responded. After our previous experience, I was excited for another opportunity.
Our friends kept our eleven month old entertained (I think the opposite was true) while we went and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, candy, popcorn, soda, the presence of brothers and sisters in Christ and celebrated the opening of this film – all at the expense of someone who we do not know, and we are thankful!
Overcomer opens in theaters Friday, Aug. 23. Here are a few reasons why you should go and take others with you:
The student body of a Christian school in a small town is devastated by the closing of a plant as families immediately begin moving away. The athletic department is particularly affected bringing together a coach and one runner, a young lady, who has had a difficult childhood. The film is anchored on the question, “What do you allow to define you?” and addresses the hurt and healing involved with difficult relationships, especially the most important Relationship.
The Kendrick brothers have matured in a powerful way with each film they’ve produced as they have found their niche in telling stories that bring others in contact with the greatest Story.
Somehow, even though there is a clear “main character” – this movie does not necessarily have a “star” – and that is hard to do. With their characteristic wit and dry family humor, predictable tearjerker moments, and a story that pierces the heart as one is forced to examine him or herself in light of truth, this film is a must see.
In a day when most “entertainment” is mingled with idolatry and sensuality and in many cases is outright displeasing to the Lord, it is wonderful to have an opportunity to go to a film one will enjoy but can also take his or her family and friends without embarrassment or regret.
In the midst of the film in the narrative of one character, there is a discussion precipitated by difficult questions that leads to one coming to faith in Christ.
The Gospel presentation is shared by the brilliant Pricilla Shirer’s character. As a pastor, I was even more impressed with the discipleship elements that were seen as an immediate follow up to this moment resulting in the character’s study of Ephesians and clear, articulate, and beautiful public profession of faith. The Kendrick brothers are not systematic theologians seeking precision to write text books, or expositors preaching verse by verse; they are film makers who are powerfully presenting eternal truths in the medium of entertainment.
I must observe this is my first Kendrick brothers film on this side of being a dad, and that certainly played a role in my response to the film and need for junior mints and tissues. I am reserving many of my thoughts so as not give “spoilers” but I can assure you, if you have broken relationships and disappointments with others – you will want to see this film.
It is clear from hearing from the brothers themselves and others involved in the making of these movies over the years that there is a clear calling upon their lives to this task. The saturation of these projects with prayer, the identification of these films as belonging to the Lord, and the pride in the craftsmanship of storytelling and truth giving are admirable.
Thank you Kendrick Brothers!
