The Forge (2024) is the latest film from Alex and Stephen Kendrick (Courageous, War Room, Overcomer), following a directionless young man whose mother begins praying for him and a successful businessman takes him under his wing. It continues the Kendrick Brothers' tradition of explicitly gospel-centered filmmaking.
Alex and Stephen Kendrick have been making explicitly Christian films since Facing the Giants (2006). The Forge represents their most mature production — the technical quality has improved significantly, the storytelling is more nuanced, and the theological content is more sophisticated than their earlier work. The film addresses discipleship, mentorship, and what it means for a young man to become a man of God.
The gospel is explicitly presented. Prayer is depicted as genuine spiritual discipline rather than magic. The mentorship relationship at the center of the film reflects biblical principles of older men investing in younger ones (Titus 2:2). The film's target demographic — directionless young adult men — is one underserved by both secular culture and many church communities.
The Forge is appropriate for all ages and particularly recommended for teenage and young adult men. It can serve as a discussion starter about mentorship, prayer, and what Christian masculinity looks like. See the Kendrick Brothers website for resources. See also our reviews of the Kendricks' other films: Courageous, Overcomer, and War Room.
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