What’s It About
A year out of high school with no plans for his future, a boy is challenged by his single mom and a successful businessman to start charting a better course for his life. Through the prayers of his mother and biblical discipleship from his new mentor, he begins discovering God’s purpose for his life is so much more than he could hope for or imagine.
MOVIESinMO REVIEW
“The Forge” transcends the boundaries of a typical movie; it evolves into a profoundly moving experience that resonates with the heart and invigorates the spirit. As a Christian film, it shines through its masterful storytelling, profound messages, and unwavering depiction of faith. From the very first frame, “The Forge” seizes your attention with its gripping narrative, weaving together themes of redemption, perseverance, and the transformative power of faith in a manner that feels both intimate and universal. This is another powerful creation by the Kendrick Brothers, the same minds behind the impactful “War Room.” Unlike other Christian films that may stumble in execution, “The Forge” stands tall, delivering a story and an immersive journey. The film’s soundscape is rich and evocative, its visuals striking and beautifully composed. At the same time, the script flows naturally, free from the awkward silences that often plague lesser productions. The plot revolves around the life of Isaiah Wright, a 19-year-old with a passion for video games and basketball. However, Isaiah’s life is adrift, lacking the spiritual guidance and influence of his father, who abandoned the family when Isaiah was young. The film depicts Isaiah’s life-altering transformation, a metamorphosis catalyzed by his encounter with a devout Christian mentor. This mentor, a member of a faith-based community group, becomes a pivotal figure in Isaiah’s life, guiding him toward Christ and a renewed sense of purpose. One of the film’s greatest strengths lies in its portrayal of discipleship as a cornerstone of deepening one’s relationship with God. The narrative artfully conveys how the influence of a caring, prayerful community can ignite a profound change in an individual’s life. Viewers will find themselves deeply connected to the characters, empathizing with their struggles and celebrating their victories as if they were their own. The Kendrick brothers have crafted “The Forge” on a solid foundation of religious authenticity, layering it with strong, relatable characters and a storyline that resonates across audiences of all backgrounds. Isaiah Wright, portrayed with nuanced depth by Aspen Kennedy, embodies the essence of a young man teetering on the edge of adulthood, caught between the familiar comforts of youth and the daunting realities of life. His mother, Cynthia, played with heartfelt sincerity by Priscilla C. Shirer, presents him with a life-altering ultimatum: finding a job and taking responsibility. Isaiah’s apathetic attitude initially hinders his job prospects, making him an unlikely candidate for employment. However, a fortuitous meeting with Joshua Moore, the owner of a gym equipment manufacturing company, becomes the turning point in Isaiah’s journey. Moore, portrayed by Cameron Arnett, doesn’t just see a troubled young man—he sees untapped potential. This encounter sets the stage for the film’s dual narrative paths: Isaiah’s professional growth and spiritual awakening. Moore’s deep religious commitment becomes a guiding light for Isaiah as he introduces him to a group of men who have found strength and solace through their shared faith. The film beautifully illustrates how Moore mentors Isaiah, leading him toward a life of righteousness and purpose. For those inclined towards the faith-based elements, the film provides a compelling portrayal of spiritual mentorship, as Moore becomes both a boss and a beacon of spiritual guidance. Meanwhile, Cynthia’s unwavering faith and relentless prayers for her son serve as a powerful reminder of the strength found in communal prayer. The film does not stop depicting the vital role of Isaiah’s mother and her circle of friends, who tirelessly pray for divine intervention. Their collective faith, though less formalized than the men’s group, is portrayed as equally significant in helping Isaiah navigate his tumultuous journey. “The Forge” is more than just a Christian film; it is a testament to the power of faith, community, and the belief that no one is beyond redemption. The Kendrick brothers have succeeded in crafting a film that not only entertains but also uplifts and inspires. Whether you’re seeking a story of spiritual awakening or simply a well-told tale of personal transformation, “The Forge” is a must-see, offering something profound for all who watch it.
OUR RATING – A FAITH-TESTING 8
MEDIA
- Genre – Drama
- Street date
- Digital/Blu-Ray/DVD – December 3, 2024
- Video – 1080p
- Screen size – 2.39:1
- Sound – English: DTS-HD MA 5.1, French: DTS-HD MA 5.1, Spanish: DTS-HD MA 5.1, English Audio Description Track: Dolby Digital 5.1
- Subtitles – English SDH, French, Spanish
Extras
- Audio Commentary – From Alex and Stephen Kendrick
- The Making of The Forge (HD 15:47)
- Discipleship in The Forge (HD 6:01)
- The Heart of The Forge (HD 4:54)
- Deleted Scenes (HD 13:18)
- Outtakes (HD 4:01)
- LifeWay Resources (HD 2:11)
- Previews