Streaming service Prime Video acquires Mark Wahlberg film, a project reportedly funded by the actor to the tune of multiple millions of dollars for its release.
In the inspiring biographical drama, Father Stu, Mark Wahlberg delivers a captivating portrayal of Stuart Long, a former boxer who transforms into a Catholic priest. The movie, now available on Prime Video in both the US and UK, has received a respectable £21.6 million at the global box office [6].
Long's character pretends to share Carmen's faith to get close to her, who is deeply involved in the Catholic Church [1]. After becoming a priest, Long is diagnosed with a rare muscle condition, which changes his life [2]. The movie takes us through his struggles, triumphs, and eventual call to the priesthood.
Critics have praised Father Stu for its heartfelt and well-executed story of personal discovery and salvation, avoiding heavy-handed sentimentality [1]. Wahlberg's portrayal of Long is noted for capturing the character's transformation and struggle with faith and illness [2][3]. The movie features strong supporting performances, including Mel Gibson and Jacki Weaver as Wahlberg's skeptical father and supportive mother, respectively [1][3].
While Father Stu received a lukewarm response from critics, with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 42%, audiences appreciated its inspirational tone and religious messages, giving it a score of 95% [5].
For Wahlberg, Father Stu was a personal project. He both produced and invested "millions and millions of dollars" of his own money into the film, demonstrating his commitment to the story [7]. The movie is a reminder that Wahlberg can take on powerfully emotional roles, often based on true stories [8].
Wahlberg's acting career includes notable roles in The Fighter (2010), where he played light welterweight Micky Ward, and Lone Survivor (2013), in which he played Navy Seal Marcus Luttrell [9]. Wahlberg's performance in The Fighter earned him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor [9].
In Joe Bell (2020), Wahlberg portrays the title character, a father who walked across America to raise awareness about bullying and suicide [10]. The movie shows Stuart Long's life from his boxing career, his transformation to Hollywood aspirations, and his eventual call to the priesthood, and concludes with footage from the later years of the real Stuart Long/Father Stu's life [4].
Father Stu is well-regarded for its authentic depiction of faith and perseverance, successful performances, and emotional depth, appealing to viewers interested in biographical and inspirational dramas [1][3][4]. If you're looking for an uplifting and thought-provoking film, Father Stu is definitely worth watching.
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