It hurts to hear the truth, but this movie is like a backstage pass at a rock concert. Big egos, weak social climbers, and an entertainment media willing to exploit the circumstances correctly portray the politics of the business of the ministry. Religion is a commodity. Similar to healthcare, supermarkets, and restaurants, each church congregation has to fight for market share. People need religion, God, and a place to fellowship with other believers. A large percentage of people will seek a church home and people choose their church homes like they choose any other entertainment venue. Family ties, traditions, and brand loyalty play a role. Ministers and full-time ministry workers are employees in a workplace. They need upward mobility, job security, and a chance to become the best in their field. The competition in the ministry is as competitive as in any other business. The social dynamics of adultery, bribery, lying, and manipulating for personal gain are the same in any industry. People will be people. This movie does as well as any other similar film. The only reason I didn't give it a higher rating is that there were unexplained gaps in the development of some of the storytelling. I highly recommend this film for its entertainment value, but not for a realistic look at what happens behind the church doors. The scenes depicted in this movie happens in all businesses, regardless of race, ethnicity, and national origin.
Review of The Undershepherd
