Movie Review Fireproof Zelder Dickerson April 14, 2013

The movie, Fireproof, is a Christian based movie drama which was released in 2008. It is based on a married couple who is experiencing issues which could lead to divorce. Caleb was a heroic fireman who saved lives every day but was allowing his marriage to go up in smoke. He desperately needed to change in order to save it. As a result, he decides to shares his dilemma with his father. In turn, his dad suggests that he postpone the decision for forty day and complete an exercise called “The Love Dare” which helps him to realize that divorce is not the answer but change is.

The Review This movie has a Christian marriage coaching theme incorporated in it because the husband shares his problems with two people he trusts. As a result, they provided him with support encouragement, accountability, honesty, biblical truth, and guidance. In essence, they became his coaches, “Christian marriage coaching is the application of Christian coaching concepts and skills to facilitate growth, healing, and change for couples” (Collins, 2009, p. 253).

There is a scene where Caleb is confiding in his friend at work about his wife desiring to get a divorce. William listens carefully and then imparts insight regarding the situation. He begins by reminding Caleb about the vows of marriage, placing a major emphasis on for better or worse. William continues to add that most people do not take their vows seriously enough. In addition, he provides a visual of a married couple by gluing a salt and pepper shaker together. He makes a point to tell Caleb that even though they are different, you never see them apart. His friend shows the characteristics of a good coach by listening, speaking the truth, being honest, and displaying sensitivity.

The second scene is when Caleb and his father are walking outside to discuss his progress with the Love Dare. Caleb begins to share his frustrations about the lack of progress made. At this point, his dad wants to know why he is so frustrated with his wife. Caleb begins to share that she is stubborn, difficult, ungrateful, and constantly complains about everything. He stresses that she has not shown any type of gratitude for his kindness. He says to his father, “How can I continue to show love to someone who continues to reject me over and over again” (Kendrick, 2008). His father walks slowly towards the gigantic wood cross and leans up against it. His response was, “That is a good question” (Kendrick, 2008). Caleb looks up at the cross and quickly replies, “Dad that is not what I am doing” (Kendrick, 2008). His father poses the same question back to him and told him that there is no way he could truly love his wife without knowing what love is. He begins to testify about God’s love for him even though he is not worthy of it and how Jesus changed his life. Caleb’s father exhibited some great coaching skills by asking open ended questions which provoked thought. He showed compassion, sensitivity, and respect by listening without interrupting. Also, he was open and honest by sharing his own spiritual walk with God.

The movie dealt with stagnation particularly in their marriage, both the husband and the wife were miserable. Marriage Coaching can provide some techniques to help a couple become unstuck. In addition, coaches partner with couples to assist them with identifying and obtaining goals specific to their marriage. A scene that warrants further reflection is the one where Caleb is fighting the issue of pornography addiction. This is not a coaches’ expertise and counseling would be needed in this instance. The temptation will present itself again and some preventable measure needs to be readily available. Another scene worthy of reflection is the one with the cross. It should serve as a reminder of God’s love for us and everything should be done to glory him. In addition, it represents a big difference between just a coach and a Christian coach. “Christian coaching is the art and practice of enabling individuals and groups to move from where they are to where God wants them to be” (Collins, 2009, p. 23).

Therapeutic Implications Both scenes were instrumental in showing a relationship of trust, commitment, and partnership. Caleb’s father and friend listened carefully to him voice his frustrations and concerns about his marriage. In the first, scene, Caleb’s friend, William, used both words and a visual to make an emotional connection to his situation. In addition, he did not tell him what to do but did offer a different perspective with his illustration. The second scene consisted of a confession, transparency, and a visual which was very powerful in making both an emotional and spiritual connection.

Personal/Professional Implications I had an instant connection to the storyline presented in the movie. I have displayed and experienced those same types of raw emotions within my relationships. There was anger, hurt, disappointment, blaming, and pure disgust. The issue of divorce is a reality for many Christian couples worldwide. On the other hand, there are a percentage of couples who have remained committed to the covenant. This is no easy task and requires a level of commitment to God and one another. The movie showed the importance of having Godly support, it can make all the difference in the world. Caleb’s father asked him some serious questions that provoked him to thought. This is a great strategy that can be utilized during the coaching process. Also, the father exhibited sensitivity, optimism, respect, and a gentleness that is necessary to be a successful coach. I will utilize this information within my profession as a Life coach. My focus will not only be on the spoken words but the unspoken words too. My hope is to identify with the client and provide an environment of safety for them. In most cases, people who feel safe have a tendency to become open and transparent about their lives.

I strongly disagreed with the scene where Katherine is confiding in her girlfriends about her marital issues. They were all in agreement with her about getting a divorce and made negative comments throughout the conversation. It is so important to have a network of friends who are sympathetic but are committed to the word of God. She was in need of some pray at that moment.

References Kendrick, A. (Producer). (2008). Fireproof [Motion picture]. United States: Samuel