Faith gets a lot of close-up shots from Hollywood, but the stories covered are often very poignant.
Movies like the rights to use the “Purge” franchise Christians are like a theological punching bag. The movie “The Conjuring” often leans towards spirituality with its slick scares.
Gasp! A wall full of upside down crosses!
“Exemplum” offers something more meaty for a secular and faith-based audience. Its protagonist’s flaws are obvious, but his journey is both refreshing and engaging. You’ve never seen a story like this before, and it’s refreshing.
Writer/director Paul Roland has something poignant to share in his first directorial debut. Audiences who are able to step through some of the storytelling ride will be glad they gave “Exemplum” a chance.
Father Colin Jacobi (Roland) knows more than your average rabbi about the digital revolution. He uses his insights to create a belief-based podcast, powered by a gimmick that should be off-limits to his profession.
He could record private confessions on his alma mater’s cassette and record them for his monologues. Gambit works, but his popularity attracts the attention of his superiors.
They weren’t happy about his newfound popularity, but that was hardly Father Colin’s only problem.
His wobbly moral compass spins, trying to stay ahead of criticism and a mental meltdown.
There’s an unexpected flirtation along the way, as well as a hacky subplot that seems half too convenient even if it spikes in the second half of the movie.
The film, shot in grainy colors, captures black and white, lacking the polish of an even smaller indie film. It doesn’t stop us from caring about Father Colin or the souls in his path.
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A few plot moments strain credibility, but the film’s flaws can’t make the story go astray.
“Exemplum”‘s willingness to herald Father Colin’s circumstances was in its favor, as did media excerpts documenting his sudden rise as a podcast star. Even richer? The film explores the political controversy of the church.
Did Father Colin burn too bright, too quickly? Does he share the “appropriate” message to the public? That context gives texture and insight into a world we rarely see on screen.
There’s very little road coverage here, nor is “Exemplum” lazily attacking the Church.
Roland’s story raises a richer set of questions about religion, humanity, and our inability to get out of our own way, even those who dedicate their lives to their faith.
Hit or miss: “Exemplum” offers a spiritual thread that, although drawn outside of traditional lines, respects the journey of faith.
