FATHER STU – “Mark Wahlberg fails to make a heavenly impression in this overall inspirational bio/drama”

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RATING

DIRECTOR

Rosalind Ross

MAIN CAST

  • Mark Wahlberg as Father Stuart "Stu" Long
  • Jacki Weaver as Kathleen Long
  • Mel Gibson as Bill Long
  • Teresa Ruiz as Carmen
  • Niko Nicotera as Barfly
  • Chiquita Fuller as Waitress
  • Cody Fern as Jacob

SYNOPSIS

It is based on the true-life story of boxer-turned-priest Stuart Long.

When an injury ends his amateur boxing career, Stuart Long moves to Los Angeles to find money and fame. While scraping by as a supermarket clerk, he meets Carmen, a Sunday school teacher who seems immune to his bad-boy charm. Determined to win her over, the longtime agnostic starts going to church to impress her. However, a motorcycle accident leaves him wondering if he can use his second chance to help others, leading to the surprising realization that he's meant to be a Catholic priest.

REVIEW SUMMARY

Sadly, Mark Wahlberg fails to make a heavenly impression in this overall inspirational bio/drama. For ‘ol Marky Mark, it can probably be boiled down to being miscast, as the likeable actor comes across as anything but here. In fact, he comes across as pretty much a foul-mouthed bully. Yes, there is a clear character arc for this “loser with a good heart,” but it’s played with very little charm – at least less than what we’re used to out of Wahlberg. The good news is that the spiritual story is given the requisite sensitivity and earnestness to make it work. As mentioned, the end result is indeed inspirational – clearly delivering on its many messages around second, third, and even fourth chances in life. Don't get me wrong, it’s a very remarkable story. If only the writing and performances were able to match it completely.

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