The Apostle

The Apostle (1997) Robert Duvall is a powerhouse off and on screen here. In addition to producing, writing and directing this piece, he also stars, and his character is almost always on screen. In fact, it's this nearly myopic attention to the one character here that makes "The Apostle" both interesting and yet seemingly lacking. Duvall plays a preacher named Sonny. He's one of those loud, verbose and powerful ministers who really can blow the doors …

…again important to the film, shines through her aged facade. It's good to see her on screen. "The Apostle" isn't a film for everyone. Some may be put off by the lengthy revival-type preaching which permeates the film. Still others may not be able to see the subtleties in Duvall's piece. But for those who can appreciate a verbose yet delicate dissertation on the nature of man in the modern spiritual world, it's quite intriguing.