Over zealous Christians are going to mist likely take this drama about a Pentecostal preacher as a slap in the face of passionate, soul-saving organized religion. It takes a slam dunk look at the way big religion has dumped an over powering feel of judgmentalism on the typical sinner who has turned their backs on religion, either worshiping independently or becoming atheist, agnostic or even involved in satanism. It is Robert Duvall's powerful performance that guides this character study of a flawed man who may have done more harm than good, needing to open his eyes to his own missing spiritual deficiencies and view the world through a larger telescope rather than the binoculars of obsessive bible thumping that doesn't understand the damage it has caused.I have begun to believe that obsessive Christianity is a step to madness, taking on hot topics in sometimes violent ways. Committing sins to stop sins, so to speak, all through as they say over "Holy ghost power". Duvall is certainly on the verge of losing his sanity, like he does with his own church, tossed out for living in sin with equally religious Farrah Fawcett. Duvall continues to pray and praise as he walks down the street, and while that's not enough to make him certifiable, his open sinning yet preaching against similar transgressions. The worship scenes can get rather uncomfortable, reminding me of why I turned to independent spirituality rather than the big halls that had such foot stomping energy that it would make a rise on the Richter scale.In spite of my own personal uncomfortable feeling towards these over the top forms of worship that go way too far. "No speaking in tongues!", the radio station manager warns Duvall when he convinces him to take him on as a religious talk show host. Duvall's journey becomes intriguing to watch, and that's what makes this film less cringe-worthy. This didn't convince me to return to public worship, but it didn't dissuade me from my spiritual emotions, either.

This is one of those rare Performances that seems to transcend Acting. Robert Duvall is the Apostille, one might say. A firebrand force, a Jesus Juggernaut, a Preacher who will not be denied. He will invoke Jesus' Name until it literally drives Satan away holding his ears.The trouble, as far as this Movie goes, it may drive Viewers away with its relentless Bible Thumping and sing-song Religious Rants, most shouted at supreme volume, with or without the aid of a microphone or Amplitude Modulation. There is so much of this and it is so intense that it almost, but not quite, leaves the more subtle, sublime elements drowning in a Sea of self-indulgence.There is much to admire in this singular effort from the Producer/Writer/Star/Director. The backdrops all have a realism of Rural, Southern Americana and the Cast are all fitting and the combination of Pros and Extras add an almost Documentary feel. Much praise and much Screen time is given to Stylistic Sermonizing by the Apostille and although it is totally believable and compelling, there maybe just too much of a Good thing.Overall, this gallant effort is not without its Sins and is quite an Excellent Character Study. A bit of editing and just a little restraint may have made this a Masterpiece.

First: DuVall's performance and that of the other actors in this film were 100% on point. Hollywood's portrayal of Christianity is always done in a way that makes anyone who calls themselves a Christian look like dumb and/or wacko, the style of Christianity shown in this film would have been such a large target of this lopsided Hollywood viewpoint. BUT instead DuVall took great pains to portray these in a most realistic way. Without making fun or a mockery of this worship style.Second: The message in this story is that Christians are not perfect but forgiven. Some of you may not understand that, given the candy coated image of what a Christian is. We all hate to show our weakness and Christians have it even harder when they try to pretend that they have no faults. The truth is we all fail in our attempt to be what God ask of us. But the true Christian seeks to do God's will and to follow his teachings. When we fail we are sorrowful and ask for help and forgiveness. "Sonny" mirrors the biblical "King David". David was a "man after God's own heart", however David was far from perfect. He committed Adultery and killed the woman's husband to cover it up. He did many things that were not right but yet his heart was always to follow God. There are many people who try to follow God but are discouraged buy failure and unfortunately in many cases get no support from the church in helping them back on the right track. These people turn there backs on God and the church, most never to return. This is a good movie for Christians who are sometimes way to full of themselves to see what they have become. I know many "Christians" who have a hart for the appearance of Christian perfection but have no heart for doing what God ask of them. I can only pray that they see the difference before it is to late. For those of you who may not call yourselves Christian, Try to understand the heart of "Sonny". Despite some of his actions "Sonny" has a heart for God. Also understand that true Christianity is a relationship with God and not just a bunch of rules. When you truly love someone you want to do what pleases them. You may not always succeed but it is your number one desire. And this is what this movie is about.

Generally I place entertainment at the top of my list for enjoying a film. Although the acting by Robert Duvall is terrific, the movie fails as entertainment. Two plus hours of what seemed like one long church sermon is close to unbearable. Duvall's character is anything but sympathetic, considering his violent solutions, religious brain wiring of the gullible, and outrageous showmanship. He simply comes across as a religious huckster. I can truthfully say that for me, "The Apostle" was a huge disappointment. I'm sure that to the correct audience it will be vastly appealing. Not recommended here however. .............................. MERK