OK for kids 12+
Despite violence, Christian fatherhood drama is uplifting.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this movie, which was produced by the same Protestant church that made Fireproof, is equal parts message movie and Evangelical ministry tool. Consequently, the story focuses on themes about conversion to Christianity and being a good, godly father. There's no language or sex, but there's more violence/peril than in similar films -- the cop protagonists engage in chases and skirmishes with suspects that end in fight fights and, in one case, a child being temporarily taken hostage at gunpoint. Tragedy strikes the central family, and one cop's baby is nearly kidnapped when his truck is car jacked. Because of the grown-up themes that focus on the nature of fatherhood and following God's path as a parent, this isn't a movie that will appeal to kids; it's aimed at the men, particularly dads, in the audience.
- Families can talk about what makes a good father. What does this movie teach about the meaning of fatherhood? Does that match your own experience?
- Do you have to be a Christian to understand or appreciate what this movie is saying about fatherhood and life in general?
- Do you think the violent/tense scenes were necessary to the story? Why or why not?
The good stuff
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Messages: There are many family-centered positive messages about the importance of being a "present" father who doesn't just go through the motions but really takes his job as a father seriously. Javier puts his morals and his family first, even if it could cost him a job. In the aftermath of tragedy, Adam dedicates himself to becoming a better father. David decides to accept responsibility for the child he never met.
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Role models: Adam, Javier, and Nathan are admirable men who believe that their role as fathers is sacred. Javier is hardworking, honest, and a committed family man. Almost all of the criminals depicted in the movie are African American.
What to watch for
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Violence: A few tense and disturbing sequences, from the opening scene in which Nathan follows his car-jacked truck in order to rescue his baby, to a long chase on foot between the cops and a couple of suspects that ends in a fist fight. A teenage boy is repeatedly beaten during a gang initiation. A cop uses a Taser to subdue someone. In a climactic cops vs. gang members scene, a criminal grabs a young girl as a hostage. A child is heartbreakingly killed (off camera) in an accident.
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Sex: Married couples embrace; a girl is asked out by an interested guy. A man explains that his father had children with six different women; another reveals that, during a one-night stand in college, he fathered a child he's never met.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: A police officer is shown stealing drugs (white powder) that are supposed to be entered into evidence. Gang members discuss an upcoming drug deal, and one tries to get rid of his stash.
Fan Reviews provided by
5
Must see for every real man by huskier
Absolutely loved it.
Realistic, i.e. lacking hollywood-style 30 car blow ups and stupid special effects. Simply realistic.
Has humor, actually very good humor, not even close to modern toilet style comedies.
I don't care what "critics" say on rottentomotoes and other websites. In my opinion and in opinion of millions of Christian men, this movie has very powerful message, wake up call for many, simple solution for modern world - RESPONSIBLE FATHERS.
We are not perfect but unlike politicians we CAN make a difference.
5
We need more movies like Courageous! by daffycuza3
This movie was such a joy! It proves that a movie with a Christian message can not only provide a solid message, but it can be entertaining as well. THIS is why we go to the movies! We highly recommend that everyone go to see it!
5
Amazing!!! by Twinkletoes87
The movie was amazing. I absolutely loved it. I laughed. I cried. It touched me deeply. Id recommend everyone watching it.
5
This is a awesome movie with a great message and every family needs to see it together by funnyfarm1260
I know the creators of Fireproof did this movie and I loved that movie but Courageous really hits home with all families especially Christian families.It is a must see movies for all families to see together and to grow in faith and always put God first in their lives.I cried through most of the movie because it really can hit home with everyone and let's us all see we do fall short of God's will for us as families and Christians.God bless everyone that had a part in this movie and for our theater for caring enough for showing it.
5
Courageous by alboo
I all fathers need to see this movie. It will help them become the father they need to be for their families. It touch me.
5
Great movie for the whole family by tmcclary
Our Church took 29 people, not just people from our congregation but some who were struggling in their family life and they were the ones that were the most vocal on how the movie hit them, they want to have their friends and families go!
5
Courageous review by maxwell_1960
Great family movie. Need more like it.
5
Courageous by bdblue
LOVED IT!
We laughed, cried (the good kind of crying) , and cried some more.
In the end, my husband and I went home CHANGED.
Please go see...especially if you're a father!
5
A MUST GO!!!!! by movielover143
AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME AMAZING MOVIE!!! It will make you laugh ...cry and feel inspired!! A wonderful Christian faith based movie with a positive family message...we SO NEED more movies like these!!! If you LOVE this movie like I did....go out and buy Fly Wheel, Facing the Giants and Fireproof!!! I did.... and they are all inspirational!!! They are all made by the same church/writers/producers. Although the movie has a great family message, there is some mild violence, so you may want to leave the kiddies under 13 home ;-) A MUST SEE!! I plan on going again!!!
5
A must see for all by Kerri_Felder
My husband and I went to see Courageous with our bible study group. Everyone loved it (guys included)! It has some funny parts, but is definitely a tear jerker. My husband and I don't normally go to the movies because it is so expensive, but I would pay to see this movie again anytime. I feel like it is important to support good christian movies.