Pastor Brown

"Pastor Brown" was an extremely thoughtful film based on the "prodigal son" archetype. In this case, the prodigal son is the prodigal daughter, Jessica Brown, the daughter of the pastor at Mount Olive church in Atlanta. Jessica's past was checkered, as she became a go-go girl and essentially walked out on her family, leaving behind her son to be raised by her sister Tanya. After Pastor Brown suffers a heart attack, Jessica returns to Atlanta where she is surprised that her dying father wants her to carry on his legacy as the new pastor of Mount Olive. Jessica is now in a head-to-head competition with the current associate pastor, Avery Callaghan. While the rivalry of the two characters was well developed in the film, the main focus was on the healing process that occurs with Jessica and her sister Tanya and her son Tariq. There was a poise and confidence in Jessica's character that allowed her to lovingly renew her family ties and make amends for the past. The performances were all first-rate in this well conceived drama. Pastor Brown liked to use the metaphor of "finding one's shoes" in life. He recognized the potential in Jessica to discover her true identity through self-forgiveness. It was an uplifting and heartfelt message.

When I heard about this film it was doing an interview with the film's director, Sons of anarchy alum Rockmond Dunbar. I said I have to check it out. I have to be honest, I am not the biggest fan of made-for-TV movies. Most of them are to cheesy for my taste. but I was pleasantly surprised by how good the film was. Jessica Jesse Brown an exotic dancer played brilliantly by Sally Richardson Whitfield returns home after her father falls ill. Her father's dying wish is for her to take over as head of the church. She honors her father's wish which does not sit too well with her sister, and the other leaders of the Mount Olive Baptist Church. I know from this description it sounds like a updated version of the prodigal son. Although there are similarities to the parable of the prodigal son I believe the film is so much more. The film is filled with familiar faces. Nicole Ari Parker who played Tonya Jesse's sister did a fantastic job playing someone who could be considered unlikable by some people. Michael Beach and Tasha Smith are good at playing butt holes. Keith David who played Pastor Brown was brilliant as usual. I can watch him read the telephone book. The rest of the all-star cast gave master class performances. I especially like how the film did not water down the gospel of Jesus Christ. The use of Bible Scripture in the film was well done. The film was well balanced with feel-good family entertainment, and real-world relevance. Pastor Brown was one of the best TV movies I've seen since Roots. I was thoroughly entertained and encouraged, and I think you will be as well.