MOVIE REVIEW - Courageous

Not often that a new movie brings in a huge first week take, when debuting in roughly half the theaters that other movies do. But Courageous did.

Courageous is from the same people that made Fireproof from 2008. That was a big hit, this looks like a big hit too. Courageous is another Faith Challenging and Faith Affirming movie that will find an audience. This, like Fireproof is not mainstream movie making. It has a message, and is not ashamed of it. It is not the usual out of Hollywood.

Courageous is the story of four different families in Albany, New York. They are good people, and people of faith. Or so they thought. One of our families then has a terrible tragedy that melds them all closer together. The family fathers then take a "resolution" to be better than they are, and be the family leader they feel God wants them to be. But we learn that is not always an easy journey, and there are challenges. Are they courageous enough to see it through?

This movie will be hit and miss situation. There will be many who will dismiss this out-of-hand, and feel that this is not what they want in an experience at the movies, and that's fine. Movies are not one size fits all. But for those who are interested, or feel that there is nothing decent coming out to the movies these days, this will be right on the money. And I am frankly fine with either side. That's the beauty of the movies.

You may notice this does not even look like most movies, and that's in the design. There is not star power in this movie. Actors you don't know at all, allowing the message to cut through without seeing a movie star. Courageous also is told very simplistically, with carefully written dialogue that carries, and delivers a message. It is straightforward, and unapologetic. It has something to say, and says it right to you.

Movies like Courageous are hard to really review. It is pure, with a message that is crafted to be positive and uplifting. There are certainly better written, better acted movies with bigger budgets out there, but there's room for this too. And I am good with bringing everything to the theaters these days, instead of 20 identical movies in theaters at the same time.

Courageous. If it's not for you, then go to the movie next door. If this is your thing, enjoy.