Machine Gun Preacher (2011)
2.5 out of 5 stars
Disturbing to watch, and not just because of the language and violence. I cannot endorse ‘the ends justify the means’ as proclaimed by the real Childers during the end credits.
Gerard Butler definitely hit the nail on the head with his portrayal of Sam Childers. Michelle Monaghan also performed well as his wife, Lynn, and provided at least one beacon of Christian grace.
I recommend perusing this review from ChristianAnswers.net which resonates with my feelings and conclusions after ‘sleeping’ (restlessly) on the viewing of Machine Gun Preacher. The only bit I disagreed with involved the amount of sexuality protrayed in the film. First, the sex was between Sam and his wife. Second, nothing explicit is shown on screen. After scanning through the positive comments, I found a reference to an excellent essay (an excerpt from On Combat by by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman) called On Sheep, Wolves and Sheepdogs which I do highly recommend.
