The story is repeated all across America, two pretty decent people are married yet their marriage is a wreck. It is headed for divorce unless something dramatic happens. Caleb (Kirk Cameron) is a local fire chief, and Catherine (Erin Bethea) is a hospital PR director. The outwardly cute couple face a home life devoid of joy, and they decide it’s not worth keeping. The movie introduces something you normally don’t see on the screen, the God of the Bible, to find hope in solving their challenge.
Okay, so I like to watch Jane Austin stuff and this just falls short in drama and storyline, but Fireproof is believable. In fact, beyond believable, it is the kind of situation that really happens in marriages. One of the issues Christian film makers have is developing realism. Does a Christian movie maker have the freedom to show David and Bathsheba on the screen of a 21st century drama? Obviously, Alex Kendrick (Director) didn’t think so.
I am not sure, but I must consider this, most people can imagine the appropriate f-bomb or Internet porn site, so that it is not necessary to depict it on the screen. Do couples fighting in their marriage need help in understanding how to fight? I don’t think so. What the movie does provide is some realistic hope and suggestions on where to turn. Like for instances: show a little compassion, read your Bible, find some good friends that will give proper advice. How about this concept: talk with someone who faced a similar challenge and overcame it! Wow! Now that’s some good direction.
The movie is less drama, but still believable especially when compared with Facing the Giants (previous movie by the same company). Truth is movie making is hard work and we really don’t need to beat people over the head with the challenge and then say the flick is a waste.
Fireproof makes a very good point of a Biblical marriage values in the present secular world. The creators decided not to hide behind the excuse of we can’t make it as good as Hollywood so we give up. The film is very clear to the Bible’s ideals of lifelong marriage, forgiveness rooted in Christ’s sacrifice, and appropriate ways to live out ones faith toward others in the workplace. PS not everyone will accept you! Kids can see this movie, but it may not be a theme they readily grasp.
Thanks for the review. I’d been wondering about the movie.
I didn’t really like “Facing the Giants” (too hokey and VERY “prosperity gospel-ish”), so I wasn’t sure about seeing “Fireproof.” We’ll probably have to wait until it’s out on DVD, but we’ll check it out.
Thanks!
Did you leave a second comment on the blog? I only see the one about “Fireproof.”
Okay, now we’re both very curious about your sermon. The last sermon posted is from Spet. 21st. Any idea when the next two will be posted? Also, what will you be doing after Revelation?