The Apostle (DVD, 2002)

The Apostle is a story along a standard plot line, redemption. But it is told in a new way making it an enjoyable film. If you are a Robert Duvall fan, this will be a very enjoyable film for you. He wrote it, directed it, financed it, produced it and edited it. This means you get a LOT of Duvall, but in a very solid performance.

There are some solid supporting roles as well, John Beasley is great as always, Billy Bob Thornton is always well cast as a creepy redneck, and musician Billy Joe Shaver plays Duvall's best friend.

Many of the preachers in the film were real and pulled from people Mr. Duvall met on his travels. Some were 10-15 years older than when he met them, but still able to spew the kind of fire he was looking for.

The dank Louisiana swampland becomes a character in its own right, playing the darkness he has fallen to and the springboard for his return.

This is a solid film with good acting and a easy to follow plot.