chaswe-28402 First question: what caused Duvall to write, direct and act in this production ? Second question, asked on one of the discussion threads: is Duvall a Christian ? Wikipedia says that while he has stated that Christian Science is his belief, he does not attend church. Wikipedia also says that Christian Scientists believe that sickness is an illusion that can be cured by prayer. This does not include toothache, or broken bones, but there's a lot of praying in this film.I'd hazard a guess that the reason Duvall was not awarded the Best Actor Oscar is that he wasn't acting. About half the rest of the cast weren't acting either. In fact, the movie is largely documentary. The actors took part in the fictitious sections. They included Farrah Fawcett and Billy Bob Thornton, and they weren't actually very good, but then they didn't have to be, since their roles could have been played by anybody. Miranda Richardson was good, as an actress, and so was the actor playing Sam, who, in my opinion, was so outstanding that perhaps he was real, like the other evangelicals and the rest of the congregation.The thought, however, of Jack Nicholson getting the Oscar for his part in "As Good as it Gets", a real stinking turkey, simply beggars belief. Duvall was way, way better. Then again, he was simply being, not acting. He was not too old, either.

Kirpianuscus the performance of Robert Duvall. the atmosphere of South. the simple and convincing story. and the admirable manner to use different pieces for a generous picture. it is not exactly a religious film. only a movie about a fight out of ordinary definitions. without limits. and with the hope of conquest of peace. a film like a battle. for the perfect note who defines each new nuance. for the new beginning. for references to literary themes and to South America culture. for the each scene who preserves not only the missionary's fever or passion but the wise way to give it to the viewer. Robert Duvall is, at the first sigh, not the best choice for the lead role. but, step by step, he becomes the apostle. in a fascinating manner. and the final message seems be - it is not just a movie. it is a hard, serious work who has not the status of answer but question. and the result is real impressive.

wes-connors After bringing scores of souls to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, evangelical Texas preacher Robert Duvall (as Euless "Sonny" Dewey) finds his Christian career threatened by infidelity. Cheating wife Farrah Fawcett (as Jessie) wants a divorce. Enraged, Mr. Duvall takes a fatal swing at Ms. Fawcett's young lover Todd Allen (as Horace). On the run from the police, Duvall changes his identity to "Apostle E.F." and begins a new preaching career in partnership with retired Louisiana minister John Beasley (as Charles Blackwell). Success includes a radio show, which is eventually heard by...The opening scenes include Duvall as a boy, which may not be clear (unless you watch it a second time). The setting is 1969, and jumps ahead with no notification. There is also something odd about mother June Carter Cash, who possibly likes to play possum. Another early concern is that Duvall, who also wrote and directed, holds back on his character's own sexual indiscretions. These are referenced as "wanderin' eye" and "womanizing" in the script, but a concentrated attention is required. Consequently, Fawcett appears to be the wicked home-wrecker. She also wants to steal Duvall's congregation...Duvall's preacher is a violent, vociferous and self-centered liar. However, he does appear to be a genuine believer. Why he avoids accepting responsibility for taking life and entering into adulterous affairs, while yearning to keep his family together, is not as important as the need to preach. Mr. Beasley and possibly Miranda Richardson (as Toosie) seem to be quietly aware of the ruse. In the dark, but acting stellar, are surprisingly unsaved mechanic Walton Goggins (as Sam) and born-again best friend Billy Joe Shaver (as Joe). Billy Bob Thornton has a glorified cameo. Duval's characterization is excellent.******* The Apostle (9/6/97) Robert Duvall ~ Robert Duvall, Farrah Fawcett, John Beasley, Walton Goggins

bograde An excellent take on charismatic, evangelical Christianity. An imperfect man with faith. Why wouldn't exposure of his wife's adultery challenged her ability to take over the church? I never understood why did he go and start a new church when he was avoiding the murder charges. Why did Sonny attempt a relationship with the new lady in Louisiana? Wouldint his new woman be adultery since he yet to be formally divorced? He seems to have been aware of the inevitable. Was he on a mission of redemption before he face the inevitable punishment? Was he addicted to the prestige and sense of purpose he had as a minister? Why did he fight so hard to build the new church?