


Best friends LC (Isaiah Washington) and Roland (Lamman Rucker) are two young, ministers climbing the ranks at the First Baptist Church,under the leadership of Pastor Dr. Ezekial Canon (Bill Cobbs). Both have dreams of taking over the church, but when the aging pastor stubbornly refuses to step-down, the two ministers make pivotal decisions that ultimately fray the fabric of their deeply woven friendship.
D**E
The Undershepherd A 5 star movie.
I have not received the movie yet, but I did see it on television. This movie hit home for many. I grew up in the church as many of us did. We were the 60's kids......when there was a time when life was much more civil back then, than it is today. Many things have changed, people, holidays, events.........we are now in a world based on $$$. Back then, morals and values reigned supreme, money was secondary, as we all looked out for each other. Today all we look out for is #1....ourselves. . This movie shows exactly what has happened with quite a few churches over the course of time. Corruption, greed, adultery, blackmail, phoniness..........not what God is about. When actors make movies like this, it doesn't always set well with the public because the truth hurts. This is not just happening in black churches, it is happening all over, in one way or another.....it just so happens to be done by a stellar black cast, which to America, depicts the downfall of black churches. Isiah Washington gave the performance of his career as an arrogant, obnoxious greedy, pompous Minister. I didn't even recognize Lou Gosset Jr...........that's how much they put into their characters. Elise Neal, as always was on the money. My man, Clifton Powell never seems to get the credit he deserves as an actor, also put in a phenomenal performance as a Minister on the brink of losing his Christianity due to attacks on his person. Malinda, Vanessa Bell, Lawman, the undisputed Keith David, and Bill Cobbs were just great. I was stunned at this movie, but also smiled that the truth made itself known. A must see for everybody..You will be rivited to your seat ........if the phone rings during viewing, let it ring. You can't afford to miss a second of this 5 star movie.
C**K
Couldn't Take My Eyes Off the TV Screen!
First of all, I understand this is a low budget movie and some of the characters are over the top. Nevertheless, I didn't take my eyes off the screen from beginning to end. What makes this so engrossing is not only the story, but that the movie is filled with known actors that worked with enough talent to really draw you in.Two young Baptist ministers have been waiting over 15 years to "move up" in the church, and the current aged and ailing pastor isn't going anywhere. One decides to part ways, and he and his wife open a little storefront church. They are struggling, but truly do love God and each other. The other young minister leads a "coup" against the church leadership and over a period of time pretty much just slides his way into the pastor's chair. Isiah Washington in this role is just plain scary, ruthless and charming at the same time. His beautiful wife is a complete wreck, but gallantly hangs in there as "first lady," to this nut, as least until she loses it completely.This is not a stage play, or musical. If you are even mildly into "gospel movies" and even if you're not, this is a must see.
B**D
Awesome movie.
I loved this movie! I miss Isaiah in main stream. Haven't seen him in main stream after he was kicked off Greys Anatomy. He's a great actor and always has been. I loved the character of his wife and how some women are treated behind the scene and the issues they're struggling with. I personally identified w her from my own experience as a wife of an abusive reverend of the church. Every one in the church adores him, but only the wife sees the ugly truth of his true character. Very moving and shocking.
B**J
Dramatic and Authentic!
The Undershepherd is an all-star cast of extraordinary actors, who portray ministerial roles in a manner that contrasts integrity and ambition. This riveting, cinematic production, is very dramatic and authentic, especially as it relates to the lifestyles that ministers may exhibit inside and outside of the church, and its subsequent impact on the congregation. Moreover, while The Undershepherd touches on power struggles, facades, and morality, Biblical principles and Christian living remain at the heart of the ministry. Highly recommended!
C**T
A MUST SEE MOVIE
I've seen this movie several times and was moved by the arrogance of this pastor whose only concern about bringing in the money. The extramarital affair of getting a woman pregnant and to cover it up by an abortion. Telling a woman that is suffering mental illness to throw away her pills and that she is "weak" later displayed the full mental illness towards the very pastor who told her to put her faith only in GOD. His wife was bulimic suffer from his verbal and emotional abuse. Later exposed by his hypocrisy to the world. (depicts how most churches are today)!!! ABOUT THE MONEY NOT THE SOULS
L**P
Mixed Feelings
Before renting this movie I read the reviews and watched the trailer. I knew it was very controversial and being a victim of church hurt myself I was very conflicted on whether I should actually watch this movie. Yet I was still very intrigued by the movie because of my a ability to somewhat relate to parts of the story having been a member an Arican American church. I preceded to rent it also because of my great fondness for the actor's that are in this movie. Upon completion I can honestly say I have sick feeling in the pit of my stomach. We all know that there is corruption in the Church but I can not say that God got the glory out of this project. I don't feel we needed to see foul acts that supposedly depict an Afircan American Church played out on film. Yes the moral of the story is what you do in m the dark will come out in the light. But my fear is that those who don't understand or know how to interrupt the message will be pushed away from the Church for fear of encountering a similar experience. It is my wish and prayer that if you do proceed to watch the film you will keep in mind this is strictly for entertainment value only.
B**D
Great movie about Church figures
Very good move with great acting, especially by Isaiah Washington (Grey's Anatomy). Reinforces why I put no faith in Reverend's, Pastor or any Church leaders.
B**N
This is REAL!!!!! It Actually happens in the Church!
Wow! Very well written and directed! A portrayal of what actually goes down in many churches! Two thumbs up! Great actors and actresses!
R**N
my review
This film is excellent it clearly shows what happens when desire and greed collide and what takes place when ambition isn't realised
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