My husband and I recently sat down to view Father Stu. I received a copy of this film to review. Mark Wahlberg usually has some great films so I was excited to receive this title. Father Stu is rated R for language so this one is not one to view around the kids.
This film is based on a true story reflecting the life of Stuart Long (Mark Wahlberg). Stu has had success at boxing but has to end his career due to issues with his health. Stuart decides to move to L.A. with aspirations to then try becoming a movie star. He works as a supermarket clerk in the meat department while out in L.A. and meets Carmen (Teresa Ruiz) who is a devoted Catholic. Stu is determined to win her over so he starts going to her church in an attempt to impress her.
Stu has his own demons to deal with and unfortunately drinks and drives. He survives a severe motorcycle accident that leads him to question his life and discovers his calling to become a Catholic priest. After starting on his new path, Stu falls while playing basketball. He goes into the hospital and is diagnosed with a debilitating disease. This devastating health crisis affects his calling and his estranged parents (Mel Gibson and Jack Weaver).
Father Stu shows the importance of including your faith in life and I feel the film is inspirational. It shows how some that are sometimes considered “rough around the edges” can yet show courage and compassion for others and how far their influence can be.
Written for the Screen and Directed by:
Rosalind Ross
Produced by:
Mark Wahlberg
Stephen Levinson
Jordon Foss
Executive Producers:
Miky Lee
Colleen Camp
Rosalind Ross
Patrick Peach
Tony Grazia
Cast:
Mark Wahlberg
Mel Gibson
Jacki Weaver
Teresa Ruiz
