Review of The Good Catholic (2017) by Pamela S — 14 Sep 2017

This movie is worth watching for the homilies alone. Look beyond the pathetic gendering of the characters and there is some great stuff. The church's emptiness is palpable until there is growth, then the church is shown full of people at the end.

Glover's character is that detail-focused liturgist who is utterly annoying until we need someone to pull off the mass. McGinley's character ministers through relationship. Spicer's character is the result of going-through-the-motions discernment on the part of both priest and church.

Schmidt is the congregation, looking for a light on in the church, living in fantasy just to get by. Children, the dying, and couples receiving counseling are shown in flickers of images. There is a wonderful scene of a priest heading into Reconciliation with another priest as they recognize the gifts and vocation of the other.

Wonderful, haunting sound track. There are deep theological and ecclesiastical themes for those willing to take a deep breath and stay awhile.