The
Man Who Sued God Movie Review:
Steve Myers (Connolly) enjoyed his life. Giving up the law
to become a fisherman off the coast of Australia, living
near his daughter Rebecca (Browning) and hanging out with
his dog Arthur, he couldn’t think of anything better.
This all changed when his beloved fishing boat was destroyed
after been hit by lightening. When his insurance company
refused to pay up, saying it was an act of God, Steve decides
to take desperate measures and sue God’s representatives,
the church and all other associated faiths.
Firing a comedic
blow at both the insurance industry and organised religion,
The Man who sued God has a very good underlining message
about today’s money led society.
Asking a very
relevant question about the how insurance companies use
the “Act of God” clause in many claims in a
world of increasing environmental property damage and suffering,
this movie successfully combines comedy and a social issue.
This is all due to the talents of Billy Connolly. Long regarded
as one of the best comedians in the world, people sometimes
forget his is also a very good actor. In both comedic and
straight roles (Mrs. Brown for example), Billy grabs your
attention from the start and doesn’t let go. The man
is electrifyingly funny, combining physical and verbal comedy
with ease but also combining this with moments of passion,
drama and regret.
He is supported
well by Judy Davis as reporter Anna Redmond, Wendy Hughes
as his ex-wife, Colin Friels as his reluctant brother and
Emily Browning as his daughter Rebecca. Billie Brown also
produces a great turn as sly lawyer Gerry Ryan.
Where the movie
triumphs is in its interesting premise. The notion of suing
God or his representatives for an act that the insurance
firms say he has committed is fascinating. While Steve is
not suing God directly, he is suing the idea that his name
and power is been used as a loophole to not pay claims.
The fact that he lawyers would have to prove the non-existence
of God for them to win the case is also intriguing.
The Man who sued
God, is a pleasant and funny movie that has a strong message.
While is might have a slightly too happy ending with religious
overtones, it is made all the more watchable by Billy Connelly’s
wonderful performance. Now lets have a read of the small
print on my insurance documents.
Star Rating =
* * *
Jamie
Kelwick
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