The movie is wonderful and true, an act of love in all its contradictions and complexity

One of the worst ways to make a cult movie is to set out to make a cult movie.

The tone of this movie is interesting -- the stakes are both dramatic and high, but it's balanced with a lot of fun, tongue and cheek dialogue.

Story: It's very simple but honestly that is fine.

An engaging story driven by a very powerful performance from Robert Duvall.The story of a minister in a evangelical Christian church who starts a new life after committing a crime. Interesting and engaging story as we see the man's life destroyed and then see him rebuild it, and see the effect he has on others. Superb performance by Robert Duvall in the lead role (though we have come to expect that from him). Very believable as the preacher, with mannerisms, doctrine etc very well researched.While having an interesting plot (written by Duvall) and also being well-directed (by Duvall), the movie isn't too profound, which is disappointing. I was waiting for that moment of clarity, but it never came.It is all about the journey, not the destination, in this case.

The Apostle will primarily appeal to those 30 and older. Robert Duvall is the only reason for seeing this movie. Otherwise, I found this movie extremely boring and slow. Robert Duvall's performance makes this movie worth watching to see terrific acting. This is my third preaching movie seen today. I think that I am all preached out. This is a good movie to see in the afternoon if you want to stay awake for the entire film. I usually enjoy watching Robert Duvall in his movie roles. This role makes him both a villain and a hero. Most of the time I remember Robert Duvall as mostly the villain in a movie. Bring plenty of munchies for this film. Enjoy.

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

Like all earthly endeavors, "The Apostle" is unfinished and patchy in places. But imperfect as it may be, it's one of the most intriguing movies of its kind. On one level, it's a road movie, but it is also a character study and a rites of passion tale. Sonny Dewey, the Apostle, was born ready, but the beginning of his final run as a missionary has its end written all over it. He is a saint in the body of a sinner, and as a preacher, he is simply too good at what he does for his own good. It's easy to see how this movie was a matter of the heart for writer-director-actor Robert Duvall. The storytelling, the setting, and the camera work all have a timeless quality. But it's Duvall's drastic performance that keep your eyes locked on the screen. The bible may praise those who do not see and still believe. But in the case of this fine movie, seeing is believing.