The film starts off intensely by showcasing the troubled relationship between father and son, marked by excessive pressure. Early on, the death of the brother occurs—it wasn’t clear to me whether he was the older or younger one, but that didn’t affect my experience. Mark Wahlberg plays Stu, an aggressive man who finds his light in fighting. However, a health issue prevents him from continuing in sports, leading him to pursue an acting career. Amid struggles and conflicts, he meets a woman and decides he wants to marry her. Then comes the second major obstacle in his life: he gets hit by a car. This event changes everything because it is at this moment that he finds God. From that point on, Stu gives up everything, including marriage, to follow a new purpose. The third challenge arises with a disease that initially affects his hands but gradually takes over his entire body. Even as he progressively loses his ability to move, Stu remains steadfast in his faith and purpose, making his journey even more inspiring. The film’s direction ties everything together emotionally, showing how the people he clashed with eventually support him and how, in a blessed way, he manages to reunite his family. Mark Wahlberg Gives His All He fully immerses himself in Father Stu’s transformation, both emotionally and physically. His physical change throughout the film is shocking—if it was achieved through special effects, it’s incredibly well done. But if it was the result of the actor’s dedication, he deserves more than just applause. He conveys each phase of the character’s life with 100% commitment. Mel Gibson Is Also Excellent! He plays Stu’s father, a tough man filled with resentment. The way his performance evolves—from a distant and harsh figure to someone vulnerable and redeemed—adds even more emotional weight to the narrative. The Film Moved Me—It Made Me Cry Father Stu was someone who, despite all the hardships, showed that every person has their own battle, mission, and cross to bear. And, as Chico Xavier said—aligning with my Spiritist beliefs: "Wherever the name of God is spoken, good can be done." "We are human beings having a spiritual experience. And we are spirits having a human experience. - Father Stu

Critics mostly dislike religious stories and anything with Mel Gibson. Sad that the movie industry gatekeepers hate on any movie with some religious heart. This is an undeniably good, not great film. Wahlberg and Gibson are great and the journey of Stu is a story of redemption and reconnecting with family after tragedy. Most Americans will enjoy it.

This was not a perfect movie, but it is quite stunning. It's beautifully made, cinematography and music. The performances were fantastic- I really didn't know Mark Wahlberg had it in him. He changes so beautifully throughout the film. Mel Gibson was a joy to see again, it was a great role for him. I see that the film might be slightly too long, and it may meander a bit- but finishing this film is worth it. I'm not a religious person, but I was in true tears. Emotional, spiritual, uplifting, and very funny.

Critics hating a movie about faith with Mark Wahlberg and Mel Gibson. Shocking. It was a great movie with a beautiful story. Couldn't make it through this one without tears. It was very well acted and fearless in its' message. A lot of faith based movies can be so poorly done and this one was excellent. The cast was great, Wahlberg really stepped out of his comfort zone here, and Gibson is riveting as always. It was a tough watch and I think it's a one and done for me but I just came upstairs while my wife was watching it (3rd time) and felt compelled to write a review. Here's to hoping we can get more faith based movies that aren't the equivalent of lifetime specials.

One of the must beautiful movies I’ve watched. Gets you thinking about the moral of the story. Critics are wrong in this one, biased opinion. Movies nowadays are not good enough for Oscar nominees, and movies like this one deserve a watch and awards for the authenticity and message. Recommended 100%

I always Ignore the critics reviews and Follow the audience reviews. And for this movie The critics got it totally wrong. I'm so glad I went with the audience review again. If Mark Wahlberg reads this, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE make more movies like this. Those artsy etherial movies that are up for Oscars these days are garbage. We need more of these real life honest stories of people who are bringing a positive influence and showing what being the best of yourself can do for everyone.

Enjoyed the movie, especially because it was based on a true story. They did the best they could in a compact time to tell the story. Still told a good story. God Bless them. Took my Son and my Son's friend.

This is the worst writing I have ever experienced in a film. Grate cast good story to go on but who ever wrote this is not qualified! I could not get through the film because the writing sounded like a narcissistic girl who likes to hear herself talk. Horrible writing it ruined the film and several of my friends said the same they couldn't watch the entire film because it was so bad. What a shame

This is a good movie! Critics are biased on this one.

This movie is so good in so many ways. Mark Wahlberg delivers in this story that will pull at your heart. Mel Gibson was awesome as well.

Just rewatched it two years later and had to write a review. It’s amusing and enthralling

The movie itself is well made. Maybe story development lacks a bit but in general is a good formative assessment of a life with purpose (even when we do not like it or understand it).

I simply did not like this movie. I kept waiting for something to start driving the plot but it never really happened and I didn’t like the sound (music) or look (too many close-ups) of it while waiting for something to drive the plot. The fact that the plot was based on a true story did make it intriguing enough to keep watching until the plot finally became driven by something more, other than the characters dialogue, in the final thirty minutes. I think I see the contrast and change they were aiming for but... it just didn’t do it for me.

A must watch for everyone who loves good engaging and thrilling movie

Tiny bit slow at the start but absolutely great film with a great story. Deserves at least 75 rotten score

If you want to watch Wahlberg (most known for playing a porn star in Boogie Nights) and Gibson (old now but leaving his wife and multiple kids because he is such a good Christian) Picking up a pay check Because Oh I don't know... Jesus Then this is the movie for you

I think the poor reviews may be from people who have stereotyped the actors and given up on the story early on. There were some slow places in the plot, but the acting was excellent and believable. It is the kind of story we need more of. It never lost my attention; and I believe it will be one I remember for a long time.

A passable watch for a group of adolescents, but seriously overlong. It occupied an afternoon, but if you are waiting for a twist, don't.

Great movie, very moving, great Mark Wahlberg, fantastic in every role, perfect for this one.

Touching story, very well told story, all emotions portrayed wonderfully. Definitely a movie to watch with he family.