Father Stu
(15) ★★★
124 MINUTES, IN CINEMAS 13 MAY STARRING: Mark Wahlberg, Mel Gibson, Jacki Weaver DIRECTOR: Rosalind Ross
THE PLOT: Boxer Stuart Long (Wahlberg) quits the ring on medical advice, moves to LA to pursue acting, and attends a Catholic church to woo the religiously observant Carmen (Teresa Ruiz). Then he finds his true calling… WHAT’S RIGHT WITH IT?
Former bad boy Wahlberg (a devout Catholic himself) is a good fit for this true tale of a troubled man who finds
redemption by seeking to become a priest, and he ably brings the character to life. WHAT’S WRONG WITH IT?
Despite a tragic turn in the final act, Father Stu never fully convinces that this life story deserves the big-screen treatment.
VERDICT: Solidly engaging, but we don’t see any Oscars in its future. CHARLES GANT