We’ve all gone to the movie theater, anticipating seeing a movie we believe will be a happy-go-lucky film. To our surprise, we find ourselves leaving two hours later with our popcorn bowl empty, and our hearts and minds filled with inspiration. Courageous definitely has this effect.
Released on September 30, 2011, this Christian film starring Alex Kendrick (Facing the Giants, Fireproof), grossed $9.0 million dollars on opening weekend, currently ranking number 4 in the Top 10 Box Office. Emphasizing the importance of godly parenting, Courageous can be moving and inspiring to viewers of all ages. Focus on the Family’s Plugged In Online review tells viewers that “Courageous isn’t so much a movie for the whole family as it is a movie for the benefit of the whole family.”
Adam (Kendrick) and his four close friends in the film decide to make a formal vow to becoming godly fathers. Their vow begins, “I do solemnly resolve before God that I will take full responsibility for myself, my wife and my children. I will love them, protect them and serve them, and teach them the statutes of God as the spiritual leader of my home.” Through intense tragedies that happen in their lives each man finds what this vow means for himself personally.
Joe Castaneda, pastor at Bethany Baptist Church, commented on the movie, saying, “It’s awesome and worth seeing. I think especially before you’re married, it will give perspective and some great ideas that people should have as they go into marriage, not just when they are in it!” Though college students may not be thinking about the idea of parenting for a while, this movie really helps get a grasp on what being a godly parent will entail. As I walked away from this film, I was excited to continue thinking about how I can prepare now for the ways that I one day hope to become a godly parent.
This phenomenal film will take you on an emotional rollercoaster, as long as you can get past the occasional “cheesy acting” thrown in every now and again. One minute you are laughing hysterically at the comical character, Javier Martinez, then, suddenly, you are reaching for the tissue box as Alex’s refuses to dance with his nine-year-old daughter in the parking lot of a bank due to embarrassment.
This movie asks you two key questions: “what does it take?” and “what will you do?” Think about how much you are truly willing to give up for the people you love. Courage takes sacrifice, but the end results exceed any joy you could gain by your own will. Grab some friends and go support this gospel-presenting film, you’ll be inspired to be a courageous follower of Christ along the way, guaranteed.