Christian Movie Reviews: Facing The Giants

I’m sure I don’t meet all the criteria that is required of an outstanding film critic. I know this because my movie assessments never seem to match that of other critic’s reviews. It’s true the professionals need to judge how well a film is made, how well the storyline is told, how well the actors perform their parts, soundtrack quality, and most importantly the success in directing. I’m a results oriented individual who wants to know if the job is getting done, and done right. This movie meets that criteria.

Facing the Giants portrays Coach Grant Taylor (Alex Kendrick) as a struggling football coach with a 6 year losing streak. Fans, parents, and players have lost hope in him to do anything significant for season number seven. In addition, he and his wife are having difficulties conceiving a child as well as maintaining a decent living. At the brink of despair, due to the countless number of personal and profession setbacks, Grant is visited by a spiritually guided older gentleman who steps in to give him a message of encouragement just in the nick of time. This message uplifts his spirit and becomes the catalyst for a change in focus, heart, prayer, and coaching style. Now, as he inspires his players to give it their very best for God, and after a series of wins, his life is on the upswing. On a winning streak and God in there hearts, his team will now need to face the opposing Giants team as the underdog and overcome the odds.

Recommendation: I’m certain you, and the critics, can find a plethora of things wrong with this movie, but a lacking list of positive messages and a few tear jerks will surely not be amongst them. Made on a reported $100,000 budget and church volunteers, I’m impressed by what Alex Kendrick and his crew have accomplished.

Directed by: Alex Kendrick
Runtime: 2 hours 16 minutes
MPAA rating: PG