‘Overcoming:’ Determining definitions

Christian film has been on a steady incline for the past handful of years. Blockbusters like “Unplanned,” “Breakthrough,” and others like them have appeared on the marquee beside other A-list films, making a new name for not only themselves, but the industry of Christian filmmaking.

Perhaps spearheading the demand for better Christian film are the Kendrick Brothers, creators of the studio by the same name, and the movie that rocked the film industry, “Facing the Giants.” Challenging filmmakers to present Christian movies in a serious, non-“cheesy” way, the Kendrick Brothers have produced a number of sobering movies that have driven people to reexamine the industry, and their own convictions.

With a lineup of films including “Facing the Giants,” “Flywheel,” “Fireproof,” “Courageous,” the #1 box-office hit, “War Room,” and much more, the Kendrick Brothers have made quite a name for themselves. They’ve become a staple name in Christian film and are often consulted for internships by Christian academies and inspired professionals – so much so that they haven’t taken interns or new hires in a number of years, from what I understand.

Being a person with religious conviction (as we all know) I make a point to support this genre of film each and every time I can. I love meaningful film that makes it a point to challenge audiences in what they not only believe, but where their convictions lie – it is the entire point of this mode of communication. As I’ve said many times, film exists as a mode of storytelling to convey thematic meaning meant to make us think, just as the ancients intended the use of fiction to be.

The recent release from Kendrick Brothers to hit theatres, “Overcomer,” is no less wonderful than its predecessor. Another sports focus, this film follows basketball coach John Harrison in his journey after devastating news dismantles his basketball team and drives him into the position of coaching cross-country, a sport he is less than thrilled about. To boot, he has one single competitor, Hannah, who has struggles of her own as a high school sophomore.

John, a man vowing to be a Christian, discovers that his convictions – and faith – are perhaps farther back on the burner than he would prefer. He meets a man who not only challenges him to rekindle his faith, but also has a story that might help him succeed in coaching a sport he doesn’t know or appreciate.

It isn’t that cut and dry, however. Complications arise when Hannah comes face-to-face with her past, and the pressure mounts when she decides to compete in the state tournament. Lost, confused, and emotionally distraught, Hannah ultimately decides to put her faith in Jesus, and experience all the goodness that comes with salvation as a Christian believer.

Rotten Tomatoes shows that audiences have given “Overcomer” a solid 98% review. I can see why – the film is moving, and challenges us to examine our own spiritual convictions and determine who we really are not only in our families, but in our view of eternity and the things that matter in the long run. The overarching theme is personal definition, discussing the idea that we need to be aware – and careful – about what we allow to define us as individuals.

The Kendrick Brothers are masters of genuine screenwriting, of making you feel emotion. I believe their talent from the Lord is just that – God-given. They have an innate way of stripping your emotions down in each film and building them back up in a Christian outlook. In a short time, you build connections with characters that aren’t even real, but teach you lessons you didn’t expect to learn going into a Christian film.

While the film is strong, there is a bit of a lull midway through the movie, but it is quickly overshadowed by the inspiration that soon follows. You’ll be cheering for Hannah’s success throughout the movie, all while dabbing your eyes.

The idea of controlling what defines us is something we don’t necessarily grapple with each day, nor is it a common theme in filmmaking. The film’s hook is simply, “What do you allow to define you?”

It’s a simple – though loaded – statement, isn’t it? What do we allow ourselves to be defined by? Perhaps it’s money or our jobs. Our families. Maybe it’s motivation to succeed or overcome ourselves. Maybe it’s our pride or our low-self-confidence. Perhaps its heroism or thievery. Whatever it is that we allow to define us, we must be cautious that our self-definition does not come from things of a fallen world – but instead, we should be defined by the very One who created us, Jesus.

For me, personally, I struggled many years with letting things outside of my faith define me. I was obsessed with movies and fiction for the longest time, and I was defined by my “fangirl”-ism. I was also defined by rejection and low-self-esteem, which drove me down a path I would not wish anyone to walk. However, I was not beyond hope – Jesus reached down into my heart, and set me straight. He redefined me through my love and passion for him, and I can say fully that I am of a new definition.

I challenge you today to examine your life. Who, exactly, are you? I’m a lot of things – I’m a reporter, conservative patriot, inspiring novelist, novice cowgirl, lover of film, daughter, sister, friend – and many other things. However, most importantly, I’m a disciple of Jesus Christ, and I’m a believer in what He did for me on the cross so many years ago.

That is my defining quality; what sets me apart from others. I only pray that it is conveyed in my actions, writings, and character. Much like Hannah, I have my difficult moments and tough roads. But, I’ve learned to overcome those struggles and rely fully on Jesus to define my life’s goal.

So, I pose the question to you. What defines you? 

Publication: 

The Drummer and The Wright County Journal Press

PO Box 159
108 Central Ave.
Buffalo MN 55313

www.thedrummer.com

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