Justin Camp

3 min read ⭑

Faith-based cinema has sometimes struggled to find mainstream acclaim, but a new wave of Christian films is surging in quality and winning over popular critics. As a result, the Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer, a barometer of mainstream critical consensus, has become an unexpected ally in spotlighting the best work in this growing genre. Some critics attribute this upswing to a shift in filmmaking, away from heavy-handed proselytizing and toward more nuanced and honest storytelling. This movement has resulted in movies that not only affirm Christian values but also tackle important and complex themes like death, heartache, failure, redemption, beauty and justice — proving that Christian films can be authentic, thought-provoking, cinematically beautiful, as well as spiritually compelling.

Below are 10 recent films that have resonated with audiences and reviewers alike, and they run the gamut. From historical works to biopics to biblical adaptations to contemporary dramas, these movies combine compelling narratives with production values that rival secular Hollywood offerings.

1. The Innocents (2016)

   Tomatometer 🍅 Score: 95%
   Summary: Set in post-World War II Poland, this film tells the powerful story of a young French Red Cross doctor who discovers a group of nuns in advanced stages of pregnancy after being assaulted by Soviet soldiers. The film explores themes of faith, trauma and redemption.
   Studio: Music Box Films
   Key Stars: Lou de Laâge, Agata Kulesza, Agata Buzek
   Director: Anne Fontaine

2. Calvary (2014)

   Tomatometer 🍅 Score: 89%
   Summary: This poignant film follows a good-natured priest who is threatened during a confessional. As he grapples with faith and mortality, he still seeks to inspire and uplift his parishioners. It’s a deep exploration of forgiveness and sacrifice.
   Studio: Fox Searchlight Pictures
   Key Stars: Brendan Gleeson, Chris O’Dowd, Kelly Reilly
   Director: John Michael McDonagh

3. Just Mercy (2019)

   Tomatometer 🍅 Score: 85%
   Summary: Based on the real-life story of Bryan Stevenson, this film follows his fight to free a wrongly condemned death row prisoner. It emphasizes themes of justice, mercy and redemption.
   Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
   Key Stars: Michael B. Jordan, Jamie Foxx, Brie Larson
   Director: Destin Daniel Cretton

4. Ordinary Angels (2023)

   Tomatometer 🍅 Score: 84%
   Summary: Inspired by a remarkable true story, this film follows a woman who rallies a small town to help a family in need, demonstrating the power of community and faith in action.
   Studio: Lionsgate
   Key Stars: Hilary Swank, Alan Ritchson
   Director: Jon Gunn

5. His Only Son (2023)

   Tomatometer 🍅 Score: 83%
   Summary: This film brings to life the biblical story of Abraham and Isaac, focusing on Abraham’s faith and obedience to God when asked to sacrifice his son. It’s a moving portrayal of unwavering faith and divine intervention.
   Studio: Angel Studios
   Key Stars: Nicolas Mouawad, Sara Seyed, Edaan Moskowitz
   Director: David Helling

6. Silence (2016)

   Tomatometer 🍅 Score: 83%
   Summary: This film follows two 17th-century Jesuit priests who travel to Japan to locate their mentor and spread Christianity. They face intense persecution, leading to a profound exploration of faith, suffering and resilience.
   Studio: Paramount Pictures
   Key Stars: Andrew Garfield, Adam Driver, Liam Neeson
   Director: Martin Scorsese

7. A Hidden Life (2019)

   Tomatometer 🍅 Score: 82%
   Summary: This contemplative film tells the true story of Franz Jägerstätter, an Austrian farmer who refuses to fight for the Nazis due to his faith. It’s a profound exploration of conscience and sacrifice.
   Studio: Fox Searchlight Pictures
   Key Stars: August Diehl, Valerie Pachner
   Director: Terrence Malick

8. Woodlawn (2015)

   Tomatometer 🍅 Score: 73%
   Summary: Set in the 1970s, this film chronicles the true story of how a spiritual awakening helped a high school football team overcome racial tensions and come together. It’s an inspiring story of faith, unity and perseverance.
   Studio: Pure Flix Entertainment
   Key Stars: Sean Astin, Caleb Castille, Jon Voight
   Directors: Andrew Erwin, Jon Erwin

9. Sight (2023)

   Tomatometer 🍅 Score: 71%
   Summary: This film tells the true story of Dr. Ming Wang, a renowned eye surgeon who overcomes incredible odds to bring sight to those in need. It highlights themes of perseverance, faith and compassion.
   Studio: Angel Studios
   Key Stars: Greg Kinnear, Terry Chen
   Director: Andrew Hyatt

10. I Can Only Imagine (2018)

    Tomatometer 🍅 Score: 67%
    Summary: This film tells the inspiring true story behind MercyMe’s beloved song, “I Can Only Imagine.” It follows lead singer Bart Millard’s journey from a troubled childhood to finding hope and redemption through music and faith.
    Studio: Lionsgate, Roadside Attractions
    Key Stars: J. Michael Finley, Madeline Carroll, Dennis Quaid
    Directors: The Erwin Brothers

Prominent faith-based filmmaker Alex Kendrick stated, “We believe that media, and specifically films, can be used to inspire, to encourage and to challenge people.” These cinematic gems embody that vision. So, take the time to savor them. You may find yourself exploring life’s deepest questions, celebrating the human spirit and being challenged and moved in unexpected ways.

Justin Camp is the editor-in-chief of Rapt Interviews. He also created the WiRE for Men devotional and wrote the WiRE Series for Men. His writing has also been featured and seen on Charisma, Moody Radio, Focus on the Family, GOD TV, The Christian Post, Crosswalk, Belief.net, LifeWay Men and other media outlets.

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