It could have been better but something went wrong along the way. Maybe the script was weak (doubtful) or casting Boris Kodjoe (David) in a singing and emotional role (ding! ding! ding!), something went horribly wrong! Nevertheless, the word of God is the main attraction in this very modern telling of the prodigal son. The cast is solid but not all of them pack a punch. For example, how is it possible for Idris Elba to steal the show from Boris Kodjoe? Looks-wise, acting-wise and everything! beats me but it happened. Elba sizzles as a conflicted but anointed Reverend and former childhood best friend of Kodjoe's character. Kodjoe is the prodigal son by the way, and due to his dislike of his father's devotion to God, he ventures out into the world on his own after losing faith in God during a family crisis. And just like an overnight makeover, 15 years fly by and he becomes a successful RnB singer, complete with the raunchy lyric songs to boot! But it takes another family tragedy happening to bring in to his senses and back home. American Idol runner up Tamyra Gray showcases some serious dramatic actress skills here, too bad her character was so painfully and shamefully underwritten and given too few lines. Gospel singing greats in the likes of Yolanda Adams and Donnie Mcclurkin make cameos during concerts. They had a good story to tell here but too much camera time was wasted on David and too bad Kodjoe was playing him. I feel David's character should have been played by someone who could actually sing and show real emotion unlike the way Kodjoe mimed, lip-synced and just acted like he was posing for the cover of GQ throughout the film. The ones who really shined were Idris Elba, Nona Gaye as his wife, Tamyra Gray, Omar Gooding (in a terrific sly-comedic sidekick role), the music and of course The Gospel!
Review of The Gospel
The Gospel
(2005)
Gosh I wish I got rate it better! It's such a great Christian film!
7 March 2006
Warning: Spoilers