Fireproof (Theaters)

There were quite a few people who complained and moaned about this film being nothing but religious propaganda and a crutch to spread the ideals of Christianity. Yet these religious aspects of the film should not ruin your experience or change your mind about this feature. Regardless of religious affiliation or lack thereof, the rules for a successful marriage are all quite similar and Fireproof conveys them quite well.

I was quite impressed with the overall quality of a film made on such a shoestring budget. The portrayal of the everyday struggles and breakdown of a married couple due to temptation and materialistic lifestyles were easy to relate to, and it was easy to find meaning in the characters feelings of hope and disappointment.

This film is definitely geared to those who are married or are considering marriage. Most should be able to relate in some way or another to the tensions and struggles involved in a lifetime relationship and can appreciate the valuable lessons this film attempts to convey. Overall, I thought it was a worthwhile experience for both my spouse and I.

Synopsis:

A heroic fireman locked in a failing marriage accepts his father’s challenge to take part in a 40-day experiment designed to teach both husband and wife the true meaning of commitment in this faith-based marriage drama starring Kirk Cameron and Erin Bethea. When he’s battling blazes, Capt. Caleb Holt (Cameron) adheres to the old firefighter’s adage about never leaving your partner behind; back at home, it’s an altogether different story. Caleb and his wife Catherine (Bethea) have been married for seven years, but lately arguments over career, housework, finances, and outside interests have driven the once-happy couple hopelessly apart. Just as Caleb and Catherine prepare to officially dissolve their marriage, Caleb’s father John (Harris Malcolm) presents his son with a most unusual challenge: commit to a 40-day experiment called “The Love Dare,” and take one last shot at saving his marriage. While at first Caleb agrees to take a chance on “The Love Dare,” the discovery that it’s closely tied in with his parent’s newfound faith causes him to momentarily reconsider. Still, Caleb carries on with the experiment despite being constantly rejected by his skeptical, embittered wife. When Caleb asks his father how he can be expected to love someone who refuses to give him a fair chance, John tells his son that this is precisely the same love that God shows for humankind. Now, with a little help from above, the man who makes headlines for saving lives will fight to be a hero to the one person who matters most — his wife. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide