After assaulting his wife's lover in a fit of rage, an evangelical preacher flees his state, changes his name and starts a new church in this drama written by, directed by and starring Robert Duvall. There is something appealing in the way he manages to start life anew with a new chance to make a difference and Duvall saddles himself with a complex character who knows that running away is not right and yet who cannot help but preserve his own freedom. Duvall also does well making his rants and raves feel like they come from the heart, including scenes with his hands in the air, passionately asking Jesus for guidance. Duvall is not, however, very convincing as a man in hiding. The film might have benefited from some scenes with him paranoid and nervous, but what really feels odd is his choice to become a radio preacher in his new state, allowing his distinctive voice on the airwaves to be heard by anyone wanting to find him. The film also runs a little long with far too many subplots (e.g. Billy Bob Thornton and his bulldozer) for its own good. Duvall is divine in the lead role though and as writer-director, he does a magnificent job drumming up sympathy for his deeply flawed but well-meaning character.
Review of The Apostle
