After the success of the Christian football movie Facing the Giants, Sherwood Pictures presented its first ever theatre release, Fireproof, which opened in theaters Sept. 26. Despite some weak acting and questionable action scenes, the moral of the movie hit the mark with accuracy.
The movie presents the story of Fire Capt. Caleb Holt (Kirk Cameron) and his wife Katherine Holt (Erin Bethea), and their struggle to salvage their broken marriage. While certain parts of the plot were unreasonable, such as the small southern town setting, many of the situations were plausible. As the movie begins, the first scene portrays the bitter relationship between Holt and his wife.
The story follows the life of Capt. Holt and his dangerous job of saving people from fires. It contrasts his effort to help the people around him, but let his marriage fall apart. His absent-minded attitude at home results in the frustrations of his wife, whom he believes is constantly nagging him. In reality, Katherine is simply tired of providing everything for him and then being abandoned for the internet, his job or his “boat.”
Katherine works full time for a hospitial and struggles to provide for her parents, as her mother is recovering from a stroke. She feels Caleb has rejected her for better things and she feels worthless and unappreciated. Meanwhile, Caleb feels that he can do nothing right and is not getting the respect he deserves as a husband and provider.
After a stereotypical and dramatic final fight, they both desire a divorce. However, through the support of their parents and friends, Caleb and Katherine must find a way to solve their broken marriage.
Throughout the movie, Cameron provides a strong lead chracter and shone as the most experienced actor. Though some scences were unrealistic and scripted lines became obvious, its picture of addictions and their consequences speak loudly to the audience.
Lt. Micheal Simmons, (Ken Beval), Holt’s friend and fellow fireman, also showed strong acting potential. His confidence while presenting the religous messages gave his perspective a realistic and human appeal.
While much of the actors lacked experience, the plot and emotional storyline succeeded in the end. The comic relief came from Holt’s cohorts, amateur firemen, and their jokes involving tomato juice, locker room dancing and the wrath of God. Simmons, Wayne Floyd, (Stephan Dervan), Eric Hammond, (Jason McLeod), and Terell Sanders, (Eric Young) play Caleb’s support system of jokesters that stand by him and provide laughs for the audience.
Overall, the salvation message and story of love and forgivness proved to be a optimistic and enjoyable experience. Though the two and a half hour film dragged a bit too long, its appeal to those facing family struggles or unhealthly addictions is worth it. Fireproof’s heart-warming ending made it a must-see for those in need of a smile.
Fireproof is playing at Edward’s Cinema in Fresno. For more information, check out Rotten Tomatoes.
