The Good Catholic

The film The Good Catholic (2017) is a unique blend of romance, comedy, and drama, with religious themes providing a thought-provoking backdrop. It’s directed and written by Paul Shoulberg, and it stars Zachary Spicer, Wrenn Schmidt, and Danny Glover.

The movie revolves around Daniel (Zachary Spicer), a dedicated young priest in a small town. He leads a life of structure, piety, and religious servitude. Daniel is always the model of propriety, upholding his vows to the Church and pursuing his spiritual beliefs with unwavering loyalty. His faith brings him tremendous peace, and he is content with his quiet and unremarkable life. But Daniel's commitment to his vocation are tested when he encounters a new character who challenges his belief system and shakes him to his core.

Wrenn Schmidt plays Jane, a young woman with a spirited zest for life and a haunting past that brings her into Daniel's world unexpectedly. Jane's arrival stirs emotions in Daniel that he did not expect, as he is drawn to her vibrant, non-conformist personality that starkly contrasts with the calm and orderly life he is accustomed to. While initially, their relationship is that of a confidante and a guide, their connection deepens, and they find themselves drawn to each other.

The film further explores Daniel's interactions with his fellow clergymen. Danny Glover gives a compelling performance as Father Victor, a mentor figure to Daniel, who offers guidance and wisdom as Daniel grapples with his repositioned beliefs and emotions. Representing another facet of the Church is Father Ollie, portrayed by John C. McGinley, who offers a humorous yet meaningful discourse on faith and human frailties.

The internal and external struggle of the Central character, Daniel, forms the crux of the movie. He finds himself caught in the delicate balance of earthly desires and heavenly commitments, and his conflict is at once deeply personal and universally relatable. Throughout the film, Daniel starts questioning his devotions and long-held beliefs. His quandary is an exploration of faith versus human connection, duty versus desire, and spirituality interjected with harsh realities.

The Good Catholic uses the backdrop of religious austerity to create a frame for an exploration of love, faith, duty, and the struggle to uphold ideals in the face of real-world tests. The narrative is intelligent and subtle, compelling viewers to reassess what it means to have faith and to be human.

On one side, it exposes viewers to the dedication, austerity, and discipline that guide the actions and decisions of Catholic priests and, on the other side, it delves into the complexities of the human heart that often contradicts with the pre-set path of duties. And amidst everything, it portrays a beautiful, yet complicated, story of unlikely love.

Shoulberg employs light and shadow in his visual execution in the movie as a metaphor for the ongoing battle between faith and carnal desire that haunts Daniel. The script, though dealing with heavy themes, is punctuated by moments of light humour and warmth that keep viewers both engrossed and entertained.

In addition to the film's thought-provoking narrative is the exemplary performances by the ensemble cast. Zachary Spicer brings an earnestness to the role of Daniel, capturing the essence of a character who is unsure of himself as he grapples with unexpected emotions. Wrenn Schmidt shines as Jane, excellently portraying a free-spirited woman struggling with her own demons. Danny Glover as Father Victor brings gravitas to his role, making his character truly memorable.

The Good Catholic, while an exploration of spirituality and faith, is at its heart a human story. Whether one is religious or not, the film presents thought-provoking questions about love and duty, morality, and human nature, proving to be compelling for a wide range of viewers. Its unique plot and the brilliant execution make it stand out, and it is a film that captivates audiences with its blend of romance, drama, and witty humor laced with an undertone of spiritual contemplation.