Can marriage be Fireproofed?
A new film made by Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia has become a surprise hit in the USA, earning over $33 million dollars in box office in the four months since it opened nationally. Called Fireproof, it uses the language and experiences of the fire-fighting lead character in relation to saving his marriage, which is threatening to go up in smoke. The fire fighter’s rule is “Never leave your partner behind” but applying his known courage to saving his marriage, not just his work, is a real challenge for the lead character, played by actor Kirk Cameron, of the 1980s TV show “Growing Pains”.
The storyline is based on the premise that after seven years of marriage, Caleb and Catherine Holt have drifted so far apart that they are ready to move on without each other. As they get ready to file for divorce Caleb’s father asks him to do something for him. He gives him a handwritten journal he calls ‘The Love Dare’ that requires him to read, think and do certain exercises each day for 40 days; these are things that can save a relationship.
Neither Caleb nor his wife are Christians, but his parents’ new faith is both modelled and shared with him in a gentle way. He hesitantly agrees to commit to the challenge and begins learning a number of deep lessons over the 40 days. The changes wrought in him, and then his wife, do lead naturally to their commitment to the Lord by the end of the film.
The acting, mostly by church members, is enjoyable, the southern accents easy on the ear, and the relationships between the young couple and their parents very poignant. The fire fighting scenes are very exciting, and well done. Most viewers at the recent Parliament House Australian premiere, both male and female, found they needed Kleenex during some scenes, so it is highly recommended you take a handkerchief when you see this one!
The New York Times film critic praised Fireproof saying “it has that rarest of creatures on the big or small screen: characters with a strong conservative Christian faith who don’t sound crazy.” The media frequently present Christians as ignorant, malevolent, or mad, so this respectful and realistic depiction is very refreshing.
Fireproof will be available for viewing in a number of venues. It is also for sale along with a Marriage Kit with the book version of the Love Dare. Many marriage ministries have endorsed Fireproof and feel it can help all marriages grow, not just those in trouble. The success of this film shows there is a huge audience for wholesome family fare such as this, and maybe more film companies will be inspired to make worthwhile uplifting movies with character growth and a real moral thoughtfully dealing with the issues of today. We recommend Fireproof to our readers!
