THE SOLOIST (2009)

Directed by: Joe Wright
Written by: Susannah Grant
Studio: DreamWorks SKG
Starring: Robert Downey Jr. Jamie Foxx
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
Journalist Steve Lopez discovers a homeless man with a musical gift and works to bring him to the attention of an appreciative world. But the man’s mental illness proves to be an obstacle that causes Lopez to reconsider what he is doing and why. More importantly, he grows to recognize his share of responsibility for the troubled man.

Movie Quote:
“I’ve learned the dignity of being loyal to something you believe in; of holding onto it, above all else. And above all else, of believing, without question, that it will carry you home.”
Steve Lopez (Robert Downey Jr.) in The Soloist (2009)

Bible Quote:
“Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”
Revelation 2:10 (KJV)

Commentary:
Steve Lopez learns a thing or two during his association with Nathaniel, a mentally ill, homeless but quite talented musician. Being true to something… anything… takes work. At some point along the way, we will all be tempted to take the easy route or make the expedient choice by setting our principles, integrity, or beliefs aside because of stiff opposition to them.

Being faithful or loyal to one’s principles or beliefs brings a certain weight or heft to one’s walk. There’s a noble, dignified quality that is associated with those who quietly refuse to bow down to or cave in to pressure or tempting pleasures. Our beliefs ultimately define us. If we choose only to believe when it is convenient (or when there is no opposition to those beliefs) what are we really saying about ourselves?

Being true to one’s beliefs or being faithful and loyal to that which we believe in carries its own reward. It strengthens us, even though we may appear weak. It sustains us, even though we may appear to be failing. It brings us the victory, even though we may appear to be defeated. We must remember that the battles we fight are spiritual ones. And the rewards are eternal.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What did Steve Lopez learn about himself during the course of the film?
2. How can we strengthen our resolve when tempted to let go of our beliefs due to pressure being applied from outside sources?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com