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15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
An exciting film about the church, January 17, 2006
The Gospel, one of the most exciting movies ever released about the black church, is now available on DVD. Boris Kodjoe (Soulfood), stars as David Taylor. David, the son of a popular minister, leaves the church after the untimely death of his mother and goes on to be a successful R&B singer. After his father, portrayed by popular character actor Clifton Powell, becomes ill, David returns to the fold of the family church which is in financial crisis. Not everyone is glad to see David return. Some members of the church, particularly his former childhood friend, Reverend Charles Frank, don't know if it's such a good idea to have a well known secular singer in the fold. David finds himself comfortable back in the church and implements his ideas into rejuvenating the congregation. In addition to his new role with the church David also finds love with a church member named Rain (Tamyra Gray). David's manager Wesley, (Omar Gooding), spends his time trying to get his artist back into the lifestyle they have become accustomed to and back on the road.
The Gospel is an excellent film and includes cameos from some of the biggest names in gospel music including Fred Hammond, Donnie McClurkin, and Yolanda Adams. Despite the big names that have small roles in the film, it's the newcomers such as former American Idol contestant Tamarya Gray and Idris Elba who offer surprisingly good performances. Boris Kodjoe also shows and proves that he is much more than just a pretty face with his performance in The Gospel.
There were just a few little things about the movie that irked me. Oscar, Tamarya Grays other love interest was always shown in his uniform for the most part. As a military spouse, I think it's a bit odd that they showed Oscar in his uniform so much even when he wasn't working. Also, there was an underlying storyline of strife/sexual dysfunction between the Nona Gaye character and her husband Reverend Charles Frank. This storyline wasn't well developed. Other than those two things it's a great film.
DVD Special Features
-Filmmakers Commentary
-Deleted Scenes
-Making-Of Featurette
-Extended Musical Performances
-Photo Montage
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20 of 22 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Clap Your Hands, January 7, 2006
A story of redemption, pride, jealousy, and reconciliation. STRONG cast with a stirring gospel soundtrack. Although others have criticized the camera work and editing, those aspects of the movie neither bothered me nor detracted from my enjoyment of this uplifting film. I found that the acting, music, and story were engaging and enjoyable. The singing performances of the choral groups and such gospel stars as Yolanda Adams, Fred Hammonds, Mom Winans, and Martha Munizzi combined nicely with, and elegantly complemented, the fine dramatic work of Idris Elba, Omar Gooding, Nona Gaye, and Clifton Powell. AMERICAN IDOL finalist Tamyra Gray shined in her acting and singing roles and showed that she has a bright future. Not an award winning film, but very entertaining. 4 solid stars.
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20 of 22 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Heart Lifting, November 20, 2005
Although the movie itself isn't the greatest, the music more than makes up for it. You will stay for the credits just to continue to hear the music. Not all will like this type of music but for those that are used to it and for others that are hearing it for the first time with an open heart and mind, it is heart lifting, toe tapping and a definite swaying in your seat. I heartily reccomend it.
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