For the Glory (2012)

For the Glory: Directed by Donald Leow. With Jason Burkey, Chelsie Casagrande, Jean-Paul Chreky, Danny Cornett. “Golden boy” Kurt Kuykendall (Jason Burkey) has it all: good looks, a spot on his college basketball team, and hopes for playing in the Olympics. But behind the closed doors of his Bethesda, Maryland home, Kurt’s life is far from perfect. An alcoholic mother (Nancy Fondriest), a power hungry father (Michael Landers), and a family tragedy make this suburban dream home a living nightmare. When Kurt gets cut at the end of his freshman basketball season, all that he’s worked for crumbles. But this is far from the final word on Kurt’s future. Buoyed by friends (Robby Stone, Danny Cornett, Chelsie Casagrande) and his new found faith in God, Kurt discovers courage and his true calling.

“What a cool story. This is a sweet and uplifting illustration of the power of God to redeem brokenness and ordain adventure beyond what we could imagine for ourselves.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eI was drawn to this movie for the soccer element and the likability of the characters, but was pleasantly surprised by how funny and romantic it was. I can relate to Kurtu0026#39;s ambition and drive, as well as his frustration that all the hard work doesnu0026#39;t always pay off the way it should.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eSome viewers may be cautioned that there is some use of alcohol – much of the story takes place on a college campus, after all. And Kurtu0026#39;s mother descends into some pretty intense alcoholism. It certainly isnu0026#39;t extreme by movie standards, but for younger kids it could be too much. I mention it since For The Gloryu0026#39;s lack of MPAA rating and Christian theme might lead families to wonder if itu0026#39;s suitable. I think it definitely is, but it depends on your kids and their sensitivities.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eI recommend For The Glory. Itu0026#39;s a fun watch and you might actually find it speaks to your own life.”