Shooting the Prodigal

Shooting the Prodigal is a fun and light-hearted comedy-drama released in 2016. Directed by David Powers, this indie favourite stars Sterling Hurst, Paul Wilson, and Christie Osterhus. Delivering a nuanced and comic depiction of Southern culture, faith, and film-making, the movie weaves together themes that will make you laugh, reflect, and empathise with the characters.

The film centres around the very charming Sterling Hurst playing the role of Brother Bob Cross, an overzealous, extroverted Baptist preacher from the South. Brother Bob, in his fervor to spread his good news, comes up with a unique idea believed to ring out his church's message to the world – making a movie.

Paul Wilson plays the role of David, an aspiring young Jewish film director from New York, who is roped in to make Brother Bob's vision a reality. This improbable duo's journey in creating a film within a film provides the narrative backbone of Shooting the Prodigal. David's city upbringing often collides with the customs, norms, and faith of the warm-hearted Southern community, setting off plenty of comical interactions. Yet, beneath all the humour and cultural cacophony, you'll find an undercurrent of shared humanity and understanding that brings depth to the movie.

Christie Osterhus portrays Ruth, a pivotal character who ties the narrative threads of the story together. She plays a congregation member who is hired as the film's production secretary. This evolving role witnesses her journey from being a simple church-goer to gaining a deep understanding of the filmmaking process whilst balancing her faith. Her character adds an intriguing and more grounded perspective to the otherwise absurd and bitterly funny events that unfold.

The screenplay is peppered generously with hilarious innuendos and satirical elements. The developers cleverly invoke humour to tackle what could have been a very sensitive subject, successfully marrying the seriousness of religion with the absurdities of movie-making. The characters are so quintessentially Southern, creating a vivid slice of the local culture that the audience can explore. Every personality in this movie shines through brightly, tightly weaving a humorously delightful southern thread throughout the narrative.

While the film predominantly showcases comedy, it also delves into a deeper subplot addressing faith and tradition. It does this without adopting a preachy undertone - a balance that is expertly struck by director David Powers and his ensemble cast.

The central theme of the movie reflects the parable of the Prodigal Son from the Bible's New Testament. For those unfamiliar with the tale, it narrates the story of a son who squanders his father's wealth but is still welcomed home with open arms when he returns. Mirroring this, Shooting the Prodigal explores notions of forgiveness, understanding, and acceptance through its characters' journeys.

The cinematography can be appreciated for capturing the landscape beautifully, bringing the story to life. The entire viewing experience is elevated by the original score, with a mixture of gospel music and modern tunes that perfectly encapsulate each scene's mood.

Shooting the Prodigal is an entertaining and thought-provoking journey. At its heart, the film is about the collective effort of a diverse group to create something new while maintaining their individuality. This movie shines with humor, humanity, and a hint of dramatic irony, all underpinned by a universal message of love and acceptance.

Refreshingly original and genuinely heartwarming, this film represents more than a comic crossover between religion and the film industry. It subtly encapsulates the potential chaos, hilarious outcomes, and eventual harmony that can arise when differing cultures, experiences, and beliefs collide while working towards a shared objective.

In Shooting the Prodigal, audiences have the unique opportunity to experience a movie that wonderfully blends comedy with thought-provoking discussions on faith and understanding. The movie serves as an excellent reminder that laughter can often be the best bridge between cultural, religious, and geographical boundaries. It is a must-watch for those who love lighthearted comedies with a deep, enduring message.