2025 Spiritual Warfare Movie Reviews

Our rubric...

Spiritual Foundation

• Theological Framework (Portrayal of spiritual realms, Biblical accuracy, Balance of natural/supernatural elements)

• Worldview (Treatment of good vs. evil, Divine sovereignty vs. free will, Integration of faith elements)

Character Elements

• Spiritual Development (Faith journey, Internal struggles, Decision-making process)

• Relationships (Impact of spiritual choices, Community dynamics, Mentorship elements)

Conflict & Resolution

• Spiritual Warfare (Battle dynamics, Prayer and faith portrayal, Use of spiritual armor/weapons)

• Outcomes (Resolution authenticity, Character transformation, Long-term consequences)

Technical Merit

• Storytelling (Plot coherence. Theme development, Message clarity)

• Production (Visual effects, Symbolic imagery, Overall execution)

Review Tips

1. Include specific film examples and scripture references.

2. Consider target audience.

3. Evaluate both obvious and subtle elements.

Access the review form here... https://forms.gle/zjsSE2rdDmwMBiUSA

You can review any movie with this form.

In this latest installment of the Den of Thieves franchise, we witness a profound spiritual vacuum that characterizes much of modern cinema's portrayal of post-Christian Europe. While technically proficient and engaging as a heist thriller, the film presents a deeply troubling spiritual landscape where sacred spaces like churches serve merely as architectural backdrops rather than centers of divine encounter.

The movie's primary spiritual failing lies in its deliberate inversion of moral truth. By positioning thieves as protagonists, the narrative subtly undermines biblical principles about theft and dishonesty. This is particularly evident in the character of Nick O'Brien, whose internal struggle between law enforcement and criminality represents the broader spiritual battle between righteousness and compromise. His journey illustrates how moral compromise, when left unchecked by spiritual accountability, leads to increasingly darker choices.

The film's treatment of relationships reveals a transactional worldview that stands in stark contrast to biblical teachings about sacrificial love and genuine community. Characters form alliances based on utility rather than authentic connection, though there are glimpses of genuine care that emerge, particularly in Nick's conflicted feelings about betraying his new friends. This internal conflict, while compelling dramatically, is never examined through a spiritual lens, leaving the character's moral struggles unanchored to any higher truth.

From a spiritual warfare perspective, the most concerning element is the complete absence of prayer, faith, or spiritual resistance to evil. The French Police Chief Hugo stands as the sole character who demonstrates any connection to traditional faith, shown briefly in a church scene with his children. This absence of spiritual warfare elements makes the characters particularly vulnerable to the enemy's primary weapons: pride, greed, and betrayal.

The technical execution of the film is strong, with well-crafted action sequences and atmospheric European settings. However, the storytelling, while engaging, misses opportunities to explore deeper themes of redemption and transformation. The resolution, which sees characters choosing personal gain over moral truth, reflects a worldview where divine justice and mercy play no meaningful role.

The film inadvertently serves as a stark reminder of how spiritual warfare manifests in our modern world - not through obvious supernatural confrontations, but through the subtle erosion of moral foundations and the glorification of sin. While entertaining as a heist thriller, it stands as a cautionary tale about the spiritual dangers of moral relativism and the consequences of living in a world where the sacred has been reduced to mere decoration.

Technical Merit: 7/10

Spiritual Foundation: 2/10

Character Development: 3/10

Spiritual Warfare Elements: 1/10

Captain America: Brave New World presents a predominantly secular narrative with limited spiritual elements. The theological framework relies primarily on the classic good versus evil struggle without direct portrayal of spiritual realms. The film operates almost entirely in the natural world, albeit one populated with superhuman abilities. The movie hints at supernatural forces but remain scientifically explained. The worldview effectively showcases the battle between good and evil through Captain America's selfless heroism contrasted with Sterns' manipulative villainy. President Ross embodies the internal struggle reminiscent of Romans 7:19, "For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice." His gamma-induced transformation into Red Hulk symbolizes how darkness can consume even well-intentioned individuals. While divine sovereignty isn't explicitly addressed, the film's treatment of mind control raises questions about free will and moral responsibility when one's agency is compromised.

The spiritual development in the film centers on characters' journeys toward moral goodness rather than religious faith. Sam Wilson's acceptance of the Captain America mantle demonstrates his willingness to sacrifice personal comfort for the greater good. His mentorship of Joaquin Torres reveals the importance of guidance in developing virtue and courage. President Ross's character arc powerfully illustrates internal conflict between his desire for redemption and the consequences of his past choices. His relationship with his estranged daughter represents the long-term impact of spiritual choices on family bonds. Isaiah Bradley's story of imprisonment and eventual exoneration demonstrates how justice, though delayed, remains an important spiritual principle.

The spiritual warfare elements manifest primarily through the battle between freedom and control. Sterns' mind-control represents demonic influence—external forces that override free will and lead people to act against their true nature. Captain America's shield, while not explicitly connected to the Shield of Faith (Ephesians 6:16), functions symbolically as protection against these "fiery darts." The resolution offers authentic transformation for several characters. An opportunity for reconciliation suggesting redemption remains possible despite grave mistakes. An opportunity to show how unity can overcome division when manipulation is revealed and addressed. Yet the post-credits scene warning of threats "from other worlds" reminds viewers that spiritual warfare continues beyond any single victory.

The storytelling suffers from thinness compared to previous Captain America films, with reviewers noting it lacks depth and coherence, particularly for viewers unfamiliar with the MCU universe. While the film attempts to address themes of integrity, nationalism, and international cooperation, it fails to develop these with sufficient clarity. The production values showcase impressive visual effects and action sequences that effectively visualize the external conflicts, even as the internal spiritual battles receive less attention. The Red Hulk's destruction of landmarks offers striking imagery that some viewers found unintentionally comical rather than meaningful.

Captain America: Brave New World offers a secular superhero narrative with undertones of spiritual warfare. While not explicitly Christian in its messaging, the film provides allegorical elements that reflect biblical concepts of temptation, manipulation, sacrifice, and redemption. The battle with corrupted men symbolizes how we must sometimes confront the darkness in those we respect while remembering their capacity for restoration. Though technically impressive, the film's narrative would benefit from deeper exploration of its spiritual themes.

Technical Merit: 5/10

Spiritual Foundation: 4/10

Character Development: 6/10

Spiritual Warfare Elements: 5/10

"The Unbreakable Boy" presents a powerful portrayal of spiritual warfare through the story of Scott and Teresa, parents raising their son Austin, who faces both autism and brittle bone disease. This true story masterfully illustrates how spiritual battles manifest in everyday life challenges.

The film effectively portrays spiritual realms through church settings and pastoral interactions, though it initially presents Scott's misunderstanding that God punishes people through suffering rather than the biblical truth that "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy" (John 10:10). The worldview presents a clear good-versus-evil dynamic, showing how Scott and Teresa navigate premarital challenges and eventually choose marriage—God's design for family. The film's depiction of addiction (Scott's alcoholism and Teresa's gaming) accurately represents spiritual strongholds that require divine intervention to overcome.

Scott's spiritual development is authentically portrayed as he transitions from relying on himself to finding faith. His journey through alcoholism to sobriety mirrors the Christian walk of surrendering control. The relationship dynamics are exceptional, particularly Austin's Christ-like unconditional love for others, including the school bully Tyler. The community transformation—from rejecting Austin to embracing him—beautifully illustrates how one person's spiritual light can impact an entire community.

The film excels in portraying spiritual warfare through Austin's physical challenges (30 broken bones), parental struggles, and addiction battles. Though prayer and spiritual armor aren't explicitly emphasized, the movie demonstrates how the absence of spiritual disciplines creates vulnerability to attack. The resolution authenticity is powerful, showing that with proper spiritual foundation in marriage and family, any battle can be overcome. The long-term consequences depicted 15 years later reinforce that while suffering continues, perseverance through faith produces enduring fruit.

The storytelling effectively conveys transformation, though some elements like Teresa's gaming addiction and Scott's imaginary friend needed further development. The production quality is professional without being distracting, allowing the spiritual messages to remain central. The film's portrayal of autism adds important representation to cinema.

"The Unbreakable Boy" ultimately demonstrates how the fruits of the Spirit—particularly love, joy, patience, and self-control—triumph over the sins of pride, wrath, and dishonoring parents. It serves as a powerful reminder that our greatest spiritual battles often occur in ordinary life circumstances, and that God uses our weaknesses to display His strength.

Spiritual Foundation: 7/10

Character Elements: 6/10

Conflict & Resolution: 8/10
Technical Merit: 7/10

Pending reviews and write up.

Spiritual Foundation: -/10

Character Elements: -/10

Conflict & Resolution: -/10
Technical Merit: -/10

"The Last Rodeo" presents a compelling narrative of spiritual warfare that extends far beyond the dust and danger of the bull-riding arena. At its core, this film depicts the classic biblical struggle between faith and fear, sacrifice and selfishness, as aging champion Joe faces his greatest opponent—not the 2,000-pound bulls, but the spiritual forces that seek to paralyze him with doubt and past failures.

The central conflict mirrors the spiritual battles we face daily. Joe's physical paralysis from his alcohol-fueled accident serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual paralysis—how past sins and shame can leave us believing we're disqualified from God's purposes. The enemy's strategy is clear: convince Joe that his best days are behind him, that he's too broken to be used by God. Yet the film beautifully illustrates how divine love can transform even our deepest failures into stepping stones toward redemption.

The spiritual warfare intensifies when Joe's grandson Cody collapses, creating a crisis that demands more than human strength. The $150,000 medical bill becomes a mountain that can only be moved through faith and sacrificial love. Here, the film demonstrates how the enemy often attacks through our deepest vulnerabilities—our children and our sense of inadequacy. Joe's decision to enter the PBR Legends Championship isn't just about prize money; it's about standing against the lie that he's worthless and choosing to fight for his family despite overwhelming odds.

Prayer and faith serve as Joe's spiritual armor throughout his journey. The film subtly weaves these elements into the narrative without being preachy, showing how authentic faith looks in real-world crisis. Charlie Williams functions as both mentor and spiritual guide, embodying the biblical principle of iron sharpening iron. Their relationship demonstrates how God often uses community to strengthen us for battles we cannot face alone.

The reconciliation with his daughter Sally represents a crucial victory in spiritual warfare. Unforgiveness and broken relationships are often the enemy's strongest footholds in our lives. As Joe repairs this relationship, he's not just healing family wounds—he's reclaiming spiritual territory that had been surrendered to bitterness and regret.

The film's climax in the arena serves as a powerful picture of spiritual warfare's ultimate truth: victory isn't always about winning by worldly standards, but about fighting with courage, faith, and love. Joe's journey from paralyzed, shame-filled man to courageous grandfather willing to risk everything for family reflects the transformative power of God's grace.

While the film could have delved deeper into explicit spiritual warfare themes, its strength lies in portraying authentic faith lived out in crisis. The reviewers consistently noted the film's balanced approach—presenting faith as integral to the story without being "pushy or over the top." This authenticity makes the spiritual themes more accessible to diverse audiences while maintaining biblical integrity.

The demonstration of spiritual gifts throughout the film—faith, healing, wisdom, service, and mercy—alongside the fruit of the Spirit (love, patience, kindness, faithfulness, goodness) provides a rich tapestry of Christian living under pressure. Even the acknowledgment of sins like pride and wrath adds depth to the spiritual journey portrayed.

Spiritual Foundation: 8/10
Character Elements: 7/10
Conflict & Resolution: 7/10
Technical Merit: 7/10

"F1" presents an unexpected arena for spiritual warfare, where the high-speed crucible of Formula One racing becomes a battlefield for the soul. Beneath the roar of engines lies a profound narrative of spiritual transformation that mirrors the classic biblical struggle between pride and humility, selfishness and sacrificial love.

The central spiritual conflict emanates from Joshua Pearce's pride—that ancient sin that continues to be the enemy's primary weapon against God's people. Pearce's arrogance and self-centeredness represent the spiritual forces that seek to isolate us from community and blind us to wisdom. His rejection of Sonny Hayes' mentorship perfectly illustrates how pride makes us deaf to the very guidance that could save us.

Hayes functions as a Christ-like figure—the experienced mentor who has walked through his own valley of shadows and emerged with hard-won wisdom. His 30-year absence from F1 mirrors the wilderness experiences that often precede spiritual calling. Like Jesus with His disciples, Hayes offers guidance that seems counterintuitive to worldly wisdom, teaching that true victory comes through humility and putting others before self.

Peter Banning's sabotage represents the adversary who works through deception and manipulation to destroy what God is building. His attempt to corrupt Hayes with personal advancement while betraying his team echoes Satan's temptation of Christ—the enemy's consistent strategy of convincing us that compromise and self-interest are more valuable than faithfulness.

The climactic spiritual battle occurs when Hayes sacrifices his own victory for Pearce's advancement. This represents the ultimate triumph over the enemy's lie that life is about personal glory. In choosing to hold off Hamilton so Pearce can advance, Hayes embodies the biblical principle that "greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends."

Pearce's transformation from arrogant rookie to humble teammate represents regeneration—the spiritual rebirth that occurs when pride is crucified. His confession to his mother about the accident demonstrates true repentance, defeating the enemy's strategy of division through blame and accusation.

The film's strength lies in presenting these spiritual themes through authentic human struggle rather than religious platitudes. While not explicitly faith-based, it powerfully illustrates that spiritual warfare is often fought in the quiet moments of choosing humility over pride, others over self, and truth over comfortable lies.

Spiritual Foundation: 5/10
Character Elements: 7/10
Conflict & Resolution: 4/10
Technical Merit: 7/10

The Naked Gun - A Spiritual Warfare Review

"The Naked Gun" presents a battlefield where spiritual warfare is trivialized through slapstick comedy, creating a dangerous blend of legitimate good-versus-evil themes contaminated by occult elements. While the film delivers laughs, it simultaneously normalizes practices that Scripture clearly warns against, making it a concerning entry in the spiritual warfare genre.

The central conflict between Frank Drebin and Richard Cane follows classic spiritual warfare patterns—good confronting evil, justice pursuing corruption. Cane's plot to use the P.L.O.T. Device for population control echoes ancient demonic strategies of destruction and chaos. His wealthy elite conspiracy mirrors the principalities and powers that Scripture identifies as our true enemies. The film correctly identifies technology as a potential weapon in spiritual warfare, showing how tools meant for good can be corrupted for evil purposes.

However, the film's most troubling element is its casual incorporation of occult practices. Frank's prayer to his deceased father for guidance directly violates biblical commands against communicating with the dead. When his father appears as an owl—a symbol consistently associated with occult wisdom and illuminati imagery—the film presents necromancy as helpful rather than dangerous. This represents a fundamental misunderstanding of spiritual warfare, where believers are called to seek guidance from the living God, not deceased relatives.

The demon-possessed snowman sequence further muddles spiritual warfare principles. While the film acknowledges demonic presence, the creature is defeated through physical means rather than spiritual authority. True spiritual warfare requires believers to use the name of Jesus and the power of God's Word, not hot tubs and physical violence. This scene trivializes genuine demonic encounters and fails to demonstrate proper spiritual response.

Frank's character arc lacks authentic spiritual development. His decision-making process remains rooted in human wisdom and comedic instinct rather than divine guidance. The relationship with Beth, while moving toward marriage themes, includes questionable moral choices that undermine the spiritual authority needed for effective warfare. The film's treatment of relationships as purely secular misses opportunities to demonstrate how godly partnerships strengthen spiritual battle readiness.

The comedy format itself becomes problematic when addressing spiritual warfare. While laughter is indeed medicine to the soul, trivializing demonic activity and occult practices through humor can desensitize audiences to real spiritual dangers. The film's approach makes light of forces that Scripture takes seriously, potentially leaving viewers unprepared for authentic spiritual battles.

Despite these concerns, the film does correctly identify that evil often operates through systems of power and control. Cane's conspiracy reflects how the enemy works through human institutions to accomplish destructive purposes. The ultimate victory of justice over corruption provides a satisfying resolution that aligns with biblical promises about God's justice prevailing.

The film's greatest weakness is its failure to present authentic spiritual weapons. Instead of prayer, faith, and biblical truth, Frank relies on luck, humor, and deceased relatives for guidance. This misrepresentation could mislead believers about proper spiritual warfare tactics and leave them vulnerable to real spiritual attacks.

Spiritual Foundation: 3/10
Character Elements: 4/10
Conflict & Resolution: 3/10
Technical Merit: 5/10