by Samuel Nichols, Contributing Writer
“We are all here for a reason.” It has been said many times and in many ways, and Father Stuart Long really believed that. This real-life priest was an inspiration to many after he survived a terrifying motorcycle accident, joined the Catholic church, and continued to serve after being diagnosed with inclusion body myositis. And his story is even more impressive when one considers his humble origins as a small-time boxer. Father Stu chronicles its titular character’s amazing journey from the ring to the pulpit.
The first thing I want to praise in this movie is the performance by Mark Wahlberg. The Bostonian is at his best when he gets to be witty and charming. He plays Father Stu with a great amount of charisma. Making the protagonist a relatable and endearing person is what sells this movie. Without his performance, the movie would fall flat.
One of the other strong selling points of the movie is the successful blend of situational comedy and drama. With such difficult aspects of the story, including Father Stu’s accident and devasting diagnosis, one would think it could become heavy quickly. But the dialogue is written in such a way to keep the mood light throughout. One scene in particular that comes to mind is after the accident when Stu has to break the news to his girlfriend that he is going to become a priest. He takes her to the same restaurant where they had their first date to break this news, and while it is sad for her, Stu’s honesty and response to her questions are hilarious.
There are a few other good performances. Teresa Ruiz gets time to shine as Stu’s old girlfriend Carmen. She plays a difficult part very well, but her screen time is cut short after Stu leaves her for the parish life. In a surprising turn, Mel Gibson is cast as Stu’s father Bill, and he gives a uniquely subdued performance. The usual crazed energy Gibson has is there, but he keeps it restrained for the most part, and he gives a touching monologue near the end of the movie. Jacki Weaver and Malcolm McDowell round out the supporting cast as well.
Some of my issues with the movie go back to the technical side. Often times the sound editing or mixing is not done properly, and we cannot hear what the characters are saying on screen. Considering how fun the dialogue is, it is definitely a downside. In addition, some of the more religious elements of the movie do not have matching tones. For the most part, the portions involving Catholic church revolve around serving and devotion. But there’s a tone-break in the early parts of the second act when Stu gets into his traumatic accident. While floating in and out of consciousness he has a vision of Saint Mary, and this helps prompt his desire to join the priesthood after he recovers. Whether or not this is really what happened to Stu, it was a stark break in the movie and its less serious nature. However, I will not knock it too much as one nearly being killed is a traumatic evident that would have us all thinking about the afterlife.
All in all, I would recommend Father Stu to the average viewer. Its inspiration and comedic elements will make for a good watch. Wahlberg’s performance helps keep the movie on course as well.
Score: 7/10
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