Movie Review: Home Run
Quick Plot Summary: A pro-baseball player's struggle with alcoholism and his struggle to admit he needs help told via an engaging and entertaining story.
Rating: Worthwhile
Suggested Ages: 13+
Let's start with the bottom-line: This is a movie about addictions. Although the context is alcoholism, the movie goes out of its way to make the point through other people's testimonies that addiction is addiction regardless of the "flavor" (drug and porn/lust are others that are briefly showcased). Basically this movie is one big really well-made ad for Celebrate Recovery, which is a Christian 12-step recovery program that can be found at a number of churches. And just in case you think I'm kidding, literally both right before the movie starts and immediately at the end, you see a screen directing you to go to the Celebrate Recovery website if you need any help (i.e. the movie stirs something in you and you realize you or someone you know needs help).
This is an interesting and engaging movie that is well directed and acted, and probably will hit a chord with anyone that has struggled with any type of addiction. The movie leaves you on a positive and hopeful note and could be considered an encouraging movie. With that said, this is basically a "Celebrate Recovery" ad. How you feel about Celebrate Recovery might influence your feelings about this movie.
Personally, I don't necessarily have a problem with recovery groups in theory and believe some of the "steps" in such groups can be worthwhile. However, I do have an issue with groups whereby people are continually identifying themselves as an addict. Jesus set us free from such identities! A group that is affirming the true identity of individuals while also helping them work through some things they maybe need to work through I don't particularly have an issue with. But I'm also not convinced that is the typical experience in most recovery type groups...
Reviewed by Christopher Long,
BodEquip Ministries