As we near the end of the summer film season, we start seeing a number of films that, financially wouldn't profit a great degree during a more profitable season. I'm speaking of the inspirational genre. Sad as it is, because most audiences want films where they need or want to think, so the industry is fearful to release these films at any other times, so a good number of people miss out tremendously. Even though many faith-based or inspirational films have profited, the fear still exists. So, now we have "Overcomer" in our midst to inspire.
Life changes overnight for Coach John Harrison (Alex Kendrick) when his high school basketball team and state championship dreams are crushed under the weight of unexpected news. When the largest manufacturing plant shuts down and hundreds of families leave their town, John questions how he and his family will face an uncertain future. After reluctantly agreeing to coach cross-country, John and his wife, Amy (Shari Rigby), meet an aspiring athlete, Hannah Scott (Aryn Wright-Thompson), who's pushing her limits on a journey toward discovery. Inspired by the words and prayers of a new-found friend--a patient in a hospital, Thomas Hill (Cameron Arnett), John becomes the least likely coach helping the least likely runner attempt the impossible in the biggest race in her life and of the year.
Others to round out the cast are Priscilla C. Shirer as Olivia Brooks, the principal, Ben Davies as Coach Myers, Jack Sterner as Ethan Harrison, John's son, Kendrick Cross as Ken Jones, Denise Armstrong as Barbara Scott, Hannah's grandmother and Holly A. Morris as Cindy Hatcher.
This was effectively directed by the faith-based king of the industry, Alex Kendrick ("Flywheel" '03, "Facing the Giants" '06, "Fireproof" '08, "Courageous" '11, "War Room" '15). Truly, of all the inspirational, faith-based writer/director's out there today, both Kendrick Brothers, Alex and Stephen probably have the most impact of moving people right where they sit. Alex Kendrick's direction is spot on by how he is able to get his actors to exude just the most effective emotions without stooping to maudlin begging the audience to believe in their work without thinking about what they are watching. As his films profit, which "War Room" '15 did immensely, it will allow him to keep producing films that will touch the heart, calm his audience all the while teaching them something without being preachy. And with this, the writing implemented by Alex and Stephen Kendrick was not only written in a way that tugs on the heart, but is also well thought out, is cohesive and concise. Is this without flaws? No, if you're speaking of it logistically. There was a small amount of choppiness, but otherwise this story soared both spiritually and logistically. I always look forward these filmmakers' films because they are always so heartfelt and compassionate laced in reality. I will be looking for their nest film, and there will be a next.
If you are a believer in Christ or Christian as is typically the title, this will not only be a lesson of how to live better, but also be a real shot in the arm, However if one isn't a Christian, this is a heartfelt and compassionate way to be introduced to the meaning of Christ, especially living in a distraught world and maybe, just maybe learn something for your own life all put in way that is not preachy at all, and we all can certainly learn more in our lives about the meaning of life which this screams.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: PG 119mins.
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