Review of Machine Gun Preacher (2011) by Byron M — 13 Sep 2012
I had high hopes for this movie based on two things, the true story of a believer and Gerard Butler (Coriolanus). I liked it, but I didn't love it. It almost felt like it didn't have a coherent narrative, and the end just kind of felt like a place to stop instead of offering closure.
Still, there were some great messages about forgiveness, redemption, and service that Christians can relate to. And writer Jason Keller and director Marc Forster (Quantum of Solace) don't shy away from the grittier aspects that can happen even after a man turns to Christ.
The could have chosen to tone down some of the more explicit elements in favor of a less-is-more approach, but it feels a lot more real to include them. Along with a gritty lead performance from Butler, supporting players like Michelle Monaghan (Source Code) and Michael Shannon (Take Shelter) up the ante on acting caliper.
The movie has its problems, but they're easily overlooked in lieu of the positive aspects that are portrayed.
This review of Machine Gun Preacher (2011) was written by Byron M on 13 Sep 2012.
Machine Gun Preacher has generally received positive reviews.
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