Review of The Forge

Maria Montemayor

Thursday, August 22, 2024

Movie poster of The Forge.

19-year-old Isaiah Wright struggles with motivation and is a source of grief for his single mother, Cynthia Wright. He spends his time video gaming and playing basketball with his friends. She is fed up with him and gives him the ultimatum to either get a job and pay rent or leave. So he starts his job search, an endeavour that changes the trajectory of his life.

The movie is a testament to how a person’s life can transform in a year due to the power of prayer and the positive influence of a mentor. I think many people will be able to relate to Isaiah and his mother. Isaiah is the prodigal son; his life has no direction. Many people will be able to relate to his lack of motivation and how he uses video games not merely as entertainment, but as a means of distracting himself from his worries and responsibilities. If you have ever felt stuck, unmotivated, attached or addicted to certain comforts, or unemployed, you will understand where Isaiah comes from.

Isaiah’s mother, on the other hand, is the concerned parent. She gives him chance after chance to redeem himself, but he’s stuck in his ways, unable to break the cycle of mistakes even with warnings from his mother. Cynthia is frustrated with her son and how he chooses not to listen to her. Many parents will be able to relate with her struggle to raise and love her son. Isaiah has no relationship with his father, and she knows that she can’t fill the fatherly role.

There are several inspirational and touching scenes in the movie. I was certainly teary-eyed many times, so be prepared with a handkerchief or a small pack of tissues when you go to the movie theatre! As with many Christian movies, there are also some corny moments. I also didn’t feel like all of the Bible verses needed to be read aloud. However, since it is for a Christian audience, others may appreciate the more overtly evangelizing aspects of the movie. The Forge pulls at your heartstrings and has kernels of wisdom. For those reasons, I would recommend it.