There are moments when the dialogue really snaps, like Goode and Burnett’s exchanges and the scenes where Jay (mini-spoiler) pays back his old customers.  Other times, like the conversations between Jay and his wife and his conversion scene, feel forced, with far more “telling” than “showing,” which leads to a sense of overkill.  Having Jay simply kneel, for example, would have been much more powerful than praying out loud.  Likewise, his immediate understanding of spiritual truths (like the command to become “the spiritual head of his home”) seemed unlikely and very preachy. 

I like the parallel of the restored convertible car, which gives the film its name.  And even though the plot is somewhat unrealistic—as all movies are—it’s still a good story.  Some will say that this isn’t the way God always works.  We don’t always see tons of miracles, just because we decide to serve Christ.  But sometimes, we do.  After all, these filmmakers did, over and over again—and that’s what their film is about.  It’s meant to give us hope.  And toward that end, Flywheel is very successful indeed.

Would they benefit from a little nuance (not to mention a lot of money)?  Absolutely.  And their heavy-handed gospel-sharing probably won’t convert the average unbeliever.  But these dedicated amateurs have tremendous potential, and you can’t help but admire their “go get ‘em” attitude.  Believers from every background are sure to be inspired and blessed. 

DVD EXTRAS:

• All new commentary from Alex and Stephen Kendrick
• Alex and Stephen Kendrick discuss their new film, “Fireproof”
• “The Making of FLYWHEEL”
• Deleted Scenes, Outtakes, Bloopers
• Special Message
• Butch Bowers and Jay Austin TV spots

CAUTIONS:

• Drugs/Alcohol:  None.
• Language/Profanity:  None.
• Sexual Content/Nudity:  None.
• Violence:  None.