Greater: Movie Review

Another Christian, football movie?

That's what you're thinking as you start to read this review, after having seen/heard about Sherwood Pictures' Facing the Giants, Jim Caviezel's When the Game Stands Tall, and last year's Woodlawn. If you aren't, well, that's what this critic was thinking.

Greater is the real-life story of Brandon Burlsworth, come to the big screen. Considered, by many, the greatest walk-on in the history of college football, Burlsworth captured the heart of his community and the nation.

It stars newcomer Christopher Severio as Brandon, an overweight kid whose dream of being a University of Arkansas Razorback never falters – and the same goes for his strong, personal faith in God. Neal McDonough (Minority Report, Flag of Our Fathers) and Leslie Easterbrook (Laverne & Shirley, Police Academy) play Burlsworth's close and loving big brother and mom, Barbara.

Now, is it any good?

Actually, Greater is better than expected. It has its flaws, but it's inspiring and touching. It's going to be a movie Christian audiences will like. The moments of faith and reference to God (even as one of the main characters walks through an emotional time of doubting) are clear. The big takeaway: even when tragedy strikes, God is still great and God is still good.

Rated PG for thematic elements, some language and smoking, Greater is a fair option for families (minus the really little ones). The tragedy in Burlsworth's story is done in a way that's palpable for older kids. Parents also should know that in addition to the language and smoking, characters are seen drinking alcohol.

All in all, Greater hits the mark for audiences longing for faith-friendly content. For general audiences, it won't pack quite as big a punch.

Get Greater on DVD and Blu-ray.